Efren "Bata" Manalang Reyes, also known as "The Magician," is a legendary figure in the world of professional pool.

With a career spanning several decades, Reyes has solidified his reputation as one of the greatest pool players of all time. 

His remarkable skill, uncanny ability to see and execute seemingly impossible shots, and his humble demeanor have endeared him to fans around the world.

Born in Pampanga, Philippines, on August 26, 1954, Efren Reyes discovered his passion for billiards at a young age. Growing up in a country where billiards is a popular pastime, Reyes honed his skills in local pool halls, mastering the art of cue control, spin, and precise positioning.

His dedication and natural talent quickly set him apart from his peers, and it wasn't long before he began making a name for himself in the competitive billiards circuit.

Reyes' rise to international prominence began in the 1980s when he started competing in major tournaments across Asia and eventually around the world. His breakthrough came in 1999 when he won the WPA World Nine-ball Championship, becoming the first non-American to achieve this feat.

This victory catapulted him to global stardom and cemented his status as a force to be reckoned with in professional pool.

One of the most remarkable aspects of Efren Reyes' game is his ability to overcome seemingly insurmountable odds.

Known for his unorthodox playing style and creative shot-making, Reyes has earned the nickname "The Magician" for his seemingly supernatural ability to navigate complex table layouts and pocket balls with surgical precision.

His strategic prowess, combined with an unparalleled understanding of angles and ball physics, has left audiences and opponents alike in awe.

Reyes' list of accolades is nothing short of impressive. With over 70 to 100 international championship titles to his name across various pool disciplines, including 9-Ball, 8-Ball, 10-Ball, and One Pocket, he has proven himself as a versatile and dominant force in the sport.

Additionally, Reyes was the first player to win world championships in two different pool disciplines, further solidifying his legacy as a trailblazer in the game.

Beyond his competitive achievements, Efren Reyes is revered for his sportsmanship and humility. Despite his unparalleled success and status as a living legend in the world of billiards, Reyes remains approachable and down-to-earth. He is known for his graciousness in victory and defeat, often displaying genuine respect for his opponents and fellow competitors.

In recent years, Efren Reyes has shifted his focus towards mentorship and passing on his wealth of knowledge to the next generation of pool players. He has become an influential figure in the development of young talent, offering guidance and insight gleaned from his decades-long career at the top of the sport. His dedication to nurturing the future of billiards ensures that his legacy will endure for years to come.

As a global ambassador for the sport of pool, Efren Reyes continues to inspire countless individuals with his extraordinary talent, unwavering dedication, and genuine love for the game. His impact reaches far beyond the confines of the pool table, serving as a testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and sportsmanship.

In conclusion, Efren "Bata" Manalang Reyes stands as a paragon of excellence in the world of professional pool. His unparalleled skill, remarkable achievements, and unwavering integrity have solidified his status as a true icon of the sport. Whether dazzling audiences with his magical shot-making or imparting wisdom to aspiring players, Reyes' influence on billiards is nothing short of legendary. As the "Magician" continues to weave his spell on the green baize, his legacy will undoubtedly endure as an indelible mark on the history of pool.