Carlo Biado: The Black Tiger who roared twice on the World Stage

Carlo “Black Tiger” Biado’s rise to the top of the billiards world is a story that mirrors the grit and determination of countless Filipino athletes who came before him. From humble beginnings in La Union to becoming a two-time World Pool Champion and a Hall of Famer, Biado’s career is a living testament to resilience, discipline, and an unrelenting hunger to succeed.

Born on October 31, 1983, Biado grew up in modest circumstances and was introduced to sports not on a billiards table, but on the greens. He once worked as a golf caddie at the Villamor Air Base golf course, hustling under the sun to support his family. Yet even then, his eyes wandered toward another pursuit. He discovered pool in the neighborhood halls, and it didn’t take long before he realized this was his true calling.

Unlike many professionals who honed their craft under structured training, Biado was largely self-taught. He would spend long nights at pool halls, practicing until closing time, learning the nuances of angles, spin, and precision by observing others and experimenting himself. 

Money was scarce, and access to proper equipment was limited, but he pushed forward — developing not only his skills but also the mental toughness that would later define his championship runs.

His breakthrough came in 2017 when he captured the World 9-Ball Championship in Doha, Qatar.

With that victory, Biado became part of the exclusive club of Filipino legends — joining Efren “Bata” Reyes, Francisco “Django” Bustamante, and Ronnie Alcano as world champions. It was the fulfillment of a lifelong dream, but more importantly, it showed the world that the Philippines remained a powerhouse in cue sports.

Success, however, didn’t soften him. Biado continued to grind through the circuit, claiming the US Open Pool Championship in 2021, further cementing his reputation as one of the game’s most consistent and dangerous players. His adaptability — being able to adjust to different formats, opponents, and high-pressure situations — made him a perennial contender.

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World Champion Carlo Biado advances in Da Nang

A tough draw for Max Lechner, who’s attention will now turn to the Hanoi Open next week #WNT pic.twitter.com/XLAVTW8ZWn

— Matchroom Pool (@MatchroomPool) October 3, 2025

Then came July 2025, a moment that redefined his career. In Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, Biado battled Russian star Fedor Gorst in an epic showdown for the World Pool Championship title. The match went down to the wire, with Biado prevailing 15-13 to secure his second 9-ball world crown. With the victory, he became the first Filipino to win the World Pool Championship twice, achieving what even legends before him hadn’t done.

The win was more than a personal milestone. It was a symbolic triumph for Philippine billiards, a reminder of the nation’s rich history in the sport and its ability to produce champions who inspire a new generation.

Earlier in 2025, Biado’s contributions were recognized on a global scale when he was inducted into the Billiard Congress of America Hall of Fame. For a player who once had to borrow cues and scrape for practice time, this recognition was the ultimate validation of his journey.

What makes Biado stand out, beyond his titles, is his character. Nicknamed the “Black Tiger,” he is known for his calm, quiet demeanor outside the spotlight but transforms into a fierce competitor once he steps onto the table. He often credits his family and supporters for his success, staying grounded despite global acclaim.

Today, Biado’s legacy is secure. His career résumé boasts multiple world titles, prestigious tournament victories, and countless deep runs in elite competitions. Yet, he remains focused not only on winning but also on representing his country with pride.

From caddie to champion, from dreamer to legend, Carlo Biado’s story is one of persistence and passion. And as he continues to compete at the highest level, his journey reminds Filipinos — and pool fans around the globe — that greatness can be achieved no matter where you start, as long as you never stop chasing the next shot.

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