Meet Bonteheuwel’s Tasneem Solomons, SA's 1st-ever World Master Pool Champion

Lester Kiewit speaks to Tasneem Solomons, South Africa’s first-ever World Eightball Pool Federation (WEPF) Women’s Singles Master Champion. 

Newly-crowned World Eightball Pool Federation (WEPF) Ultimate Pool Women’s Singles World Master Champion Tasneem Solomons (35) from Bonteheuwel defeated former world champion Kirsty-Lee Davies from Wales.

The 22nd annual competition took place from 18 to 27 June in Blackpool, England.

Solomons kept her cool until the last ball in the final frame of the final match at last week’s championships, to emerge as the first South African to lift the trophy and the title.

In the final stages of the competition, Solomons sunk three balls and one eight ball.

Solomons' doubles partner Naathierah Taliep earned the runner-up spot in the Women’s Doubles category of the games.

Solomons says she started playing at home with her dad as her mentor. 

"It all started at home and I played at home... my dad was my mentor."

- Tasneem Solomons, World Eightball Pool Federation Master Champion

On winning, Solomons says she had to beat four champions in her pool to become the champion... which was 'the best feeling'.

"The competition was next-level... there were pros and I had the toughest draw, because I took out four world champions... It's the best feeling! I don't think there are words to describe how much this means to me." 

- Tasneem Solomons, World Eightball Pool Federation Master Champion

Solomons says her biggest challenge was funding because pool is not recognised as a sport in South Africa. 

"We don't get any funding from the government because pool is not recognised as a sport in South Africa... so we need to raise funds for accommodation, flights, entry fees, and food... So, it's hectic."

- Tasneem Solomons, World Eightball Pool Federation Master Champion

Solomons dreams of opening a pool academy in Bonteheuwel for youth who are inspired to play while she continues to compete in competitions and defend several of her championship titles. 

Scroll up to the audio player to listen to the full conversation.