The US Open Pool Championship stands as one of the most prestigious tournaments in professional nine-ball pool, drawing competitors from around the globe since its inception in 1976. Founded by Barry Behrman at Q-Master Billiards in Norfolk, Virginia, this annual event represents the pinnacle of achievement for pool players worldwide. The championship now takes place at Harrah’s Resort in Atlantic City and boasts a prize fund of $300,000, continuing its legacy as the most sought-after title in American pool.
This guide traces the complete history of the US Open Pool Championship, from its humble beginnings through its evolution under Matchroom Pool. I have followed this tournament for decades and will share the stories, records, and moments that define its legendary status in the billiards community.
Table of Contents
The Founding and Early Years (1976-1980s)
Barry Behrman had a simple but revolutionary vision: create a truly open championship where any player could enter and compete for glory. In 1976, he launched the inaugural US Open Pool Championship at his Q-Master Billiards room in Norfolk, Virginia. This open-entry format broke from the invitation-only tournaments that dominated professional pool at the time.
The first tournament attracted 64 players who paid a $100 entry fee to compete for a modest prize purse. Mike Sigel emerged as the inaugural champion, defeating Jim Rempe in the final. Sigel would go on to win a second title in 1980, establishing himself as one of the early dominant forces in the championship’s history.
The 1980s saw the tournament grow in prestige and prize money. Steve Mizerak captured the 1979 title at age 35, becoming one of the oldest champions in the event’s history. The decade also marked the rise of Earl Strickland, who won his first US Open in 1984 at just 23 years old, beginning what would become one of the most decorated careers in tournament history.
Tournament Format Evolution
The US Open Pool Championship uses a hybrid format that tests players across multiple stages of competition. The tournament begins with a double-elimination format in the early rounds, giving competitors a second chance if they lose their first match. This system ensures that a single bad game does not eliminate a top contender prematurely.
After the initial rounds, the competition shifts to single-elimination knockout matches. The format progresses through races to different rack counts: early matches typically race to 9 racks, semifinals race to 11 racks, and the final race to 13 racks. This increasing difficulty demands greater stamina and mental fortitude as the tournament advances.
Nine-ball pool serves as the discipline for the championship, using the standard WPA rules. Players must strike the lowest-numbered ball first and pocket the 9-ball to win each rack. The tournament employs an alternate break system, where players take turns breaking rather than the winner of each rack breaking next. A shot clock ensures matches proceed at a reasonable pace, adding pressure to decision-making.
The current tournament features a field of 256 players, making it one of the largest professional pool events in the world. This open-entry policy means amateurs can compete against established professionals, creating the potential for dramatic upsets and Cinderella stories.
The Green Blazer Tradition
Every US Open Pool Championship winner receives a distinctive green blazer, a tradition that began in the tournament’s early years. Modeled after the green jacket awarded to Masters Tournament winners in golf, this blazer represents the pinnacle of achievement in nine-ball pool. Champions wear their blazers during the trophy ceremony and often display them as prized possessions throughout their careers.
The green blazer has become synonymous with the US Open title itself. Players speak of “winning the jacket” with the same reverence golfers use when discussing the Masters green jacket. Only a select group of players have earned this honor, making it one of the most exclusive clubs in professional pool.
The History of the US Open Pool Championship: Notable Champions and Records
Earl Strickland and Shane Van Boening share the record for most US Open Pool Championship victories, with five titles each. Strickland dominated during the 1980s and early 2000s, winning in 1984, 1987, 1993, 2000, and 2002. His aggressive playing style and unmatched competitive fire made him a fan favorite and feared opponent.
Shane Van Boening matched Strickland’s record with an incredible run from 2007 to 2015, capturing titles in 2007, 2012, 2013, 2014, and 2015. His near-consecutive wins from 2012-2015 represent one of the most dominant stretches in tournament history. Many consider Van Boening the greatest American pool player of the modern era.
Other multiple-time winners include Mike Sigel with two early victories, Johnny Archer with wins in 1991 and 1999, and Nick Varner who captured titles in 1989 and 1995. Varner also holds the distinction of being the youngest champion, winning his first title at just 22 years old in 1989.
Recent champions reflect the increasingly international nature of professional pool. Fedor Gorst won the 2024 title, continuing a trend of high-level competition from players around the world. The 2025 champion added another chapter to this ongoing history, with players already preparing for the US Open Pool Championship 2026 in Atlantic City.
Memorable Moments and Historic Matches
The 2003 US Open produced one of the most controversial moments in tournament history. Jeremy Jones made a remarkable run to the final, defeating several top players along the way. His performance captivated audiences and demonstrated that underdogs could challenge established stars on pool’s biggest stage.
Earl Strickland’s 2002 victory stands as particularly memorable because it marked his fifth championship, cementing his legacy as one of the all-time greats. The match featured several signature Strickland moments, including fearless shot-making and intense focus under pressure.
Shane Van Boening’s four consecutive finals appearances from 2012-2015, all resulting in victories, represent perhaps the most dominant stretch by any player in tournament history. His ability to maintain peak performance across multiple years at the sport’s highest level showcases why many consider him the greatest of all time.
Fedor Gorst’s 2024 victory marked the arrival of a new generation of talent. At just 24 years old, Gorst demonstrated the composure and skill typically associated with veteran champions, suggesting he may challenge the record books in years to come.
Venue History and Transitions
The US Open Pool Championship spent most of its early decades at Q-Master Billiards in Norfolk, Virginia. Barry Behrman’s pool room provided an intimate setting that allowed fans to get close to the action. Players often cite the Norfolk years as creating a special atmosphere that modern venues struggle to replicate.
As the tournament grew, it moved to the Chesapeake Conference Center in Chesapeake, Virginia, offering more space for spectators and television production. Later years saw the event relocate to the Hilton Norfolk Virginia Beach, providing a more upscale setting befitting the championship’s growing prestige.
The Matchroom Sport acquisition brought additional venue changes. Recent tournaments have taken place at Harrah’s Resort in Atlantic City, New Jersey. This location offers excellent facilities for both players and spectators, plus the resources needed for professional broadcasting. The 2026 tournament returns to Harrah’s Resort from August 18-23, continuing this successful partnership.
The Matchroom Era and Modern Evolution
Barry Behrman’s passing in 2016 created uncertainty about the tournament’s future. His children briefly continued running the event, but the 2018 tournament was cancelled due to organizational challenges. This interruption marked a low point in the championship’s history.
Matchroom Sport, the world’s leading pool and snooker promoter, acquired the US Open Pool Championship rights in late 2018. This acquisition brought professional tournament management, increased prize funds, and integration with the World Nineball Tour. The 2019 tournament marked the beginning of this new era.
The COVID-19 pandemic forced cancellation of the 2020 event, but Matchroom successfully resumed operations in subsequent years. Under their management, the prize fund has grown to $300,000, with the winner receiving approximately $50,000. The tournament now serves as a key event for Mosconi Cup qualification and World Nineball Tour ranking points.
Matchroom’s professional broadcast production has transformed how fans experience the tournament. High-definition streaming, professional commentary, and multiple camera angles bring the action to audiences worldwide. This media presence has helped elevate the US Open Pool Championship to new levels of visibility in 2026.
Records and Statistics
Earl Strickland and Shane Van Boening each hold five US Open Pool Championship titles, sharing the record for most victories in tournament history. Strickland spread his wins across nearly two decades, while Van Boening achieved his five titles in a more concentrated eight-year period.
Nick Varner remains the youngest champion at 22 years old, winning in 1989. Steve Mizerak holds the record for oldest winner at 35 years old in 1979. The tournament has seen relatively few repeat winners, with only a handful of players capturing multiple titles throughout the championship’s history.
Prize money has grown dramatically from the $10,000 total purse in 1976 to today’s $300,000. The winner’s share has increased proportionally, though inflation-adjusted comparisons show the modern financial rewards significantly exceed historical levels. Entry fees have also risen, now typically costing several hundred dollars for the 256-player field.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who has the most US Open pool championships?
Earl Strickland and Shane Van Boening are tied for the most US Open Pool Championship titles with five wins each. Strickland won in 1984, 1987, 1993, 2000, and 2002. Van Boening won in 2007, 2012, 2013, 2014, and 2015.
Where is the US Open pool tournament in 2026?
The US Open Pool Championship 2026 takes place at Harrah’s Resort in Atlantic City, New Jersey from August 18-23, 2026. Matchroom Pool promotes the event as part of the World Nineball Tour.
Who are some famous US Open champions?
Famous US Open champions include Earl Strickland (5 titles), Shane Van Boening (5 titles), Mike Sigel (2 titles), Johnny Archer (2 titles), Nick Varner (2 titles), Steve Mizerak, and recent winner Fedor Gorst (2024).
What is the prize money for the US Open Pool Championship?
The US Open Pool Championship currently features a $300,000 prize fund, with the winner receiving approximately $50,000. The prize money has grown significantly from the original $10,000 purse in 1976. Entry is open to all players who pay the entry fee.
Conclusion
The history of the US Open Pool Championship spans nearly five decades of memorable matches, legendary champions, and evolving tournament formats. From Barry Behrman’s original vision at Q-Master Billiards to Matchroom Pool’s modern professional production, this championship has maintained its status as the most prestigious nine-ball tournament in America.
The green blazer tradition, the open-entry format, and the list of legendary winners all contribute to the tournament’s unique character. Earl Strickland and Shane Van Boening’s shared record of five titles represents the pinnacle of achievement, though future champions may yet challenge these marks.
As the US Open Pool Championship 2026 approaches this August at Harrah’s Resort, the tournament continues to evolve while honoring its rich history. Whether you are a longtime fan or new to professional pool, understanding this championship’s legacy deepens appreciation for every shot played on its storied tables.