World Pool Masters
Recap
Published April 13, 2026
The 2013 World Pool Masters in Barnsley marked a significant moment in Niels Feijen's career. Feijen, known as The Terminator, won his first Masters title by defeating England's Darren Appleton in the final. The victory initiated a strong period in Feijen's career, leading to major accomplishments over the following two years.
Feijen entered the tournament following a strong 2012 campaign. The Matchroom-organized event brought together the world's top 16 players for the prestigious 9-ball invitational. Feijen advanced through the field with consistent play throughout the competition. His path to the final reflected the tactical skill and mental toughness he had developed since his professional debut in 1997.
The final against Darren Appleton saw Feijen employ an aggressive approach while Appleton relied on technical shot-making. Playing on home soil, the Englishman had crowd support. Feijen's experience in major tournaments proved decisive. Feijen had previously captured the 2008 World Straight Pool Championship and reached numerous major finals, including a loss to Efren Reyes in a Tokyo tournament in 2001.
This Masters victory proved particularly significant for Feijen's career trajectory. At 35, he entered a period of peak performance that included back-to-back Mosconi Cup MVP honors, World Cup of Pool finals appearances, and ultimately the 2014 World 9-Ball Championship. The Masters title established Feijen as a champion at pool's highest levels, a status he reinforced by capturing a second Masters crown in 2018.
For Appleton, the runner-up finish came on home turf. Feijen's victory in Barnsley demonstrated his status as a championship-level player, moving from a consistent tournament finalist to a winner at the sport's biggest events. This Masters triumph became the foundation of a career that achieved success across Europe and beyond.
Sources: Matchroom Pool – Niels Feijen Wikipedia – Niels Feijen
This recap was compiled from public tournament records and tournament organizer communications. ForceFollow is not affiliated with the tournament organizer.