1978 US Open 9-Ball Championship

Results

Place	Player	Prize
1	Allen Hopkins
2	Steve Mizerak

Recap

Published April 13, 2026

The 1978 US Open 9-Ball Championship saw Allen Hopkins win one of professional pool’s most prestigious titles. With a $5,000 prize pool, Hopkins defeated Steve Mizerak in the finals.

Hopkins turned professional in 1971 and earned the nickname Young Hoppe, referencing legendary Willie Hoppe. He came to the 1978 US Open following his 1977 World Straight Pool Championship victory. The New Jersey native had played pool since childhood, receiving a small table at age seven. By 1978, he was competing at the highest levels of professional pool.

The final featured two of the sport’s top players. Mizerak was an accomplished nine-ball competitor. The US Open began its modern format in 1976 with 16 players and was becoming one of nine-ball’s most sought titles. Today, winners receive the iconic green blazer and lifetime entry privileges.

Hopkins’ 1978 US Open victory was part of a career that included over 50 tournament titles. His success contributed to nine-ball’s growing popularity during a period when the game transitioned from pool hall recreation to televised professional sport. This championship was a significant achievement in a career that led to his BCA Hall of Fame induction. Hopkins later became a respected commentator and helped bring professional pool to television audiences.

Sources: Allen Hopkins (pool player) – Wikipedia U.S. Open Pool Championship – Wikipedia

This recap was compiled from public tournament records and tournament organizer communications. ForceFollow is not affiliated with the tournament organizer.