1979 US Open 9-Ball Championship
Part of the US Open 9-Ball Championship archive
US Open 9-Ball Championship
Results
| Place | Player | Prize |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Louie Roberts | |
| 2 | David Howard |
Recap
Published April 13, 2026
St. Louie Louie Roberts won the 1979 US Open 9-Ball Championship at Q-Master Billiards in Virginia Beach that October, taking home the $3,000 first-place prize. Roberts was recognized as one of the era's most charismatic and skilled competitors during the early years of organized nine-ball tournament play.
The tournament featured a strong field that included future Hall of Famers and established players. Roberts defeated Mike Sigel, Larry Hubbart, Dallas West, and others on his path to the title. In the final, he faced David Howard, who finished as runner-up and earned $2,000. The match showcased the competitive standard of nine-ball play at the time.
The 1979 event occurred during the early years of professional nine-ball, three years after the US Open began in its official format in 1976 with 16 players. The tournament was expanding in both prestige and participant numbers, drawing top players from across the country to compete for what was becoming one of pool's most sought-after titles. The $3,000 winner's purse reflected the tournament's growing importance in the billiards world.
Roberts' victory represented a significant achievement in his career. He passed away in December 1991 at a relatively young age. His skill and personality made him popular among fans, and his US Open championship remained a major accomplishment. The tournament also reflected the depth of American nine-ball talent during this period, with players like Sigel and other top finishers representing the competitive level of nine-ball play.
The 1979 US Open at Q-Master Billiards in Virginia Beach helped establish the event as a premier tournament, beginning a period of growth that would eventually expand the field to 256 players and significantly increase prize purses in later years.
Sources: Wikipedia – U.S. Open Pool Championship
This recap was compiled from public tournament records and tournament organizer communications. ForceFollow is not affiliated with the tournament organizer.