Pool Legend Efren Reyes, 71, Still Playing 'Until Wheels Fall Off

At 71 years old, Efren "Bata" Reyes just reminded the world why they call him the Magician.

The Filipino pool legend competed in the WNT Legends exhibition tournament in Manila last week, facing off against fellow icons Francisco "Django" Bustamante, Earl Strickland, and Ralf Souquet. Reyes finished third, but his message to fans was clear: he's playing for as long as his body lets him.

"While I still can, I'll keep playing," Reyes said after the tournament.

In his battle for third place, Reyes fell behind 4-7 against Germany's Ralf Souquet. Then something magical happened. He started sinking his signature combinations, pocketing 1-9 and 2-9 shots that brought the crowd to their feet.

Reyes tied the match 9-9, and for a moment, it felt like the old days. But a foul at the five ball gave Souquet the opening he needed to clinch the 11-9 victory.

Age has caught up with the Magician in some ways. He finished the tournament with a 1-2 record. The shots that once fell effortlessly now require a bit more luck, and Reyes admitted his opponents played better this time around.

But the tournament revealed something more important than who won or lost.

Why This Inspires

Legions of fans rushed Reyes for autographs and selfies, treating him like the champion he's always been. Even Souquet, who beat him for third place, couldn't stop praising his opponent.

"No question, Efren 'Bata' Reyes, the greatest of all time," Souquet said. "To me, it's not even a question. Never was, never is, and never will be."

Reyes thanked his supporters for their prayers and continued faith, even when victories don't come as easily. At 71, he remains the youngest competitor in the bunch at 57, showing that true legends never really retire.

They just keep showing up, one rack at a time.