Kelly Fisher defended her WPA Heyball World Championship in Pune, edging Thailand’s Waratthanun Sukritthanes in a tense black-ball shootout. The final ended 5–5 before Fisher claimed the decider for back-to-back world titles.
A quick lead, then a long fight
Inside the Rajan Khinvasara Billiards and Snooker Academy, Fisher raced to a fast advantage by punishing early mistakes from her opponent. Sukritthanes fought back steadily, leveling the match at five racks each and forcing a shootout for the title.
With the trophy on the line, Fisher potted every one of her attempts. Sukritthanes could not keep pace, and the winner’s cheque of $30,000 stayed with the defending champion.
World titles across decades
The win adds another global crown to a career that already includes five world snooker titles and world championships in billiards, ten-ball and nine-ball. Fisher, who turned 48 shortly after the event, now holds back-to-back Heyball world titles.
Compatriot Gareth Potts also retained his men’s title on the same evening, giving Great Britain both world championships at the 128-player event.
A bigger stage in mind
Speaking during the championship, Fisher said Heyball could one day reach the sport’s biggest stage. “Heyball has the potential to be in the Olympics,” she noted, pointing to its expanding international field.
For now, a black-ball finish in western India keeps her where she has spent much of her career: alone at the summit.
