Colorize and Breathe Life into Old Black-and-White Photos (Get started for free)
What is the story behind the colorized 1985 photo of Efren Reyes taken in the US?
The 1985 photo of Efren Reyes was his first known appearance in the United States, where he competed in the 9-Ball Open tournament at Red's Billiards in Houston, Texas.
Reyes used the alias "Cesar Morales" when he arrived in the US, as his real name had already gained a reputation, and he wanted to compete anonymously.
Reyes' performance at the 1985 US Open 9-Ball Championship, where he dominated the field under the Cesar Morales alias, would later catapult him to international fame in the world of pool.
The colorized version of the 1985 photo aims to evoke a sense of nostalgia and provide a contemporary perspective on Reyes' impact on billiards during the mid-1980s.
Reyes was born in poverty in the Philippines, one of nine children, and grew up without electricity or running water, before becoming one of the greatest pool players of all time.
In the 1985 tournament, Reyes faced off against the then-US champion, Danny Medina, from Denver, in a series of 9-ball races to 9, with Reyes emerging victorious.
The use of an alias by Reyes was a strategic move, as pool players in the US already knew him as a great shooter, and he wanted to surprise them with his skills in person.
Reyes has gone on to win over 100 professional tournaments in his career, across a variety of disciplines, including 8-ball, 9-ball, one-pocket, and cushion billiards.
Reyes' performance at the 1985 US Open 9-Ball Championship marked a pivotal moment in his career, further establishing his reputation as one of the best players in the sport.
The colorized version of the 1985 photo has been widely shared on social media platforms and online communities, sparking interest among both old fans and new audiences.
Reyes' rise in the 1980s coincided with the increasing popularity of pool in the United States, as the sport gained a wider audience and following.
The 1985 photo of Reyes, now colorized, offers a unique glimpse into a formative period of his career and the evolution of pool as a competitive sport.
Colorize and Breathe Life into Old Black-and-White Photos (Get started for free)