2022 US Open 9-Ball Championship

Results

Place	Player	Prize
1	Francisco Sanchez Ruiz
2	Max Lechner

Recap

Published April 13, 2026

Francisco Sánchez Ruíz won the 2022 US Open Pool Championship, becoming the first Spaniard to win one of pool’s most prestigious titles. The 26-year-old defeated Austria’s Max Lechner 13-10 in the final at Harrah’s Resort Atlantic City, winning the $50,000 first prize and reaching World No. 1 on the Live Nineball World Rankings.

In the final, Lechner started strong with back-to-back break-and-runs to lead 2-0 early. He extended his advantage to 3-1 while Sánchez Ruíz struggled at the table.

Sánchez Ruíz recovered as the match progressed, gradually closing the gap against Lechner. While leading 3-1, Lechner missed a seven ball during a safety exchange, giving Sánchez Ruíz momentum. Sánchez Ruíz took control from that point forward and won the match 13-10.

Sánchez Ruíz reached the final by defeating defending champion Carlo Biado 11-7 in the semifinal. Biado had won his earlier matches including a 9-0 victory in the Round of 16 but could not advance past Sánchez Ruíz in the semifinals.

This victory marks a significant achievement for Spanish pool. Sánchez Ruíz is the first player from Spain to win a major championship. His rise to World No. 1 reflects his development as a professional player. Lechner finished as runner-up in his best performance in a major championship.

Sources: Matchroom Pool WPA Pool

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