Since trying his luck in the United States’ billiards scene during the pandemic in 2021, Carlo Biado’s wife Niecky has always been on his side.
This steadfast partnership reached a pinnacle on Monday when Biado clinched the title of the 2024 WPA Predator World 10-Ball Championships at the Rio All-Suites Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas.
After securing a 3-1 victory over Naoyuki Oi of Japan in the finals, Biado took a moment to express his gratitude to his wife.
“My wife is a wonderful gift. She is always there, everywhere I go. I wanted to thank her for supporting me,” Biado shared with reporters as he held his trophy and the champion’s purse, a substantial $75,000 or P4.2 million.
After acknowledging his opponent and the cheering crowd, including a small group of Filipinos, Biado presented the Predator trophy to his wife and draped the gold medal around her neck, a symbolic gesture of appreciation.
“Ano pa nga bang mahihiling ko? Lahat ng ito ay inaalay ko sa’yo Panginoon. Maraming salamat sa gabay at pagbibigay sakin ng lakas sa bawat laban ko. Sabi ko nga, my wife is a gift for me. She guides and supports me in my journey. I owe you big time Bebs! And to my kids, lahat ng ito ay para sa inyo,” the 40-year-old expressed on his official Facebook page.
Niecky played a pivotal role in Biado’s decision to try his luck in the US in 2021, urging him to explore new opportunities amid the absence of significant billiard events in the Philippines. Four months after arriving in the US, Biado emerged victorious in the US Open Pool Championship, a testament to his wife’s persuasive instincts.
“Eventually, I followed her advice and proved that she’s really my lucky charm,” Biado acknowledged in a previous interview with the media.
Biado recognizes that luck, while crucial, must be complemented by hard work.
“Success is no accident. It is hard work, learning, sacrifice, and most of all love of what you do. Don’t stop dreaming. Dreaming is one of the best feelings in the world; then make it happen,” added the 2017 World 9-ball champion.
Prior to his world 10-ball conquest, Biado achieved a runner-up position in the Las Vegas Open, culminating in a fantastic week for the Filipino ace.