Jonas Magpantay.
The little kid from Bansud, Oriental Mindoro, has conquered the world. The Barangay Kaunlaran, Cubao, Quezon City resident Jonas Ruga Magpantay has waited patiently for this—his chance to shine, the reward for all his sacrifices, and the culmination of a journey that started over two decades ago.
Two decades. The wait was worth it.
The 31-year-old Magpantay etched his name into the history books, defeating Szymon Kural of Poland, 13-9, in the final to claim the Qatar World Cup 10 Ball title held at the Ezdan Palace in Doha, Qatar on Sunday, November 2, 2025.
Thus, Magpantay earned US$100,000 for his efforts. Kural, on the other hand receivef the runner-up prize of US$40,000.
On the road to the finals, Magpantay beat countryman Carlo Biado, 11-8, in the last 32, two-time European Pool champion Wojciech Szewczyk of Poland, 11-5, in the last 16, Niels Feijen of the Netherlands, 11-7, in the quarter final round before beating two-time Junior World 9 ball title holder Moritz Neuhausen of Germany, 11-6, in the semi final round.
Magpantay highlighted his huge wins against Qatar's Arab Team Champion Abdullatif Alfawal, 9-0, Japan's top cue artist Naoyuki Oi, 9-6, and World Games gold medalist Oliver Szolnoki of Hungary, 11-7.
Carla Cortez had something to say to his husband. "We are proud of you. Nagbunga na din lahat ng paghihirap mo. Narito lang kami ng anak natin si Tantan (Tristan Jake Magpantay) laging naka suporta sayo," said Carla, childhood sweetheart of Jonas.
"Maraming salamat po sa mga sumuporta at nanalangin kay Jonas," She added.
Sportsman Christopher "Dong" Cheng also congratulates Jonas in his latest achievement.
"Congratulations, Champ! Barangay Kaunlaran is proud of Jonas Magpantay for winning the Qatar World Cup 2025! You are truly an inspiration to us all!" Said Cheng, who is also the chairman of Barangay Kaunlaran, Cubao, Quezon City. -Marlon Bernardino-
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