Bao Phương Vinh finishes as runner-up at World Billiards Championship

Vietnamese billiards player Bao Phương Vinh secured second place at the 2026 Carom 3-Band World Championship held in Blois, France.

In the semi-finals, Bao Phương Vinh staged a dramatic comeback against veteran Turkish player Tasdemir Tayfun. After trailing 10-21 early in the match, Bao executed several high-scoring series to overtake Tayfun and secure his place in the final.

In the championship match, Bao faced Belgian legend Eddy Merckx. The final was a highly competitive contest where both players traded significant scoring runs. Although Bao managed to take a 30-24 lead following a 7-point series, Merckx regained control with a 15-point run. Despite a late effort from Bao to close the gap to 39-41, Merckx secured the title with a final 9-point series, winning the match 50-39. This victory marks the third world title for the 58-year-old Merckx.