Sruong Pheavy’s Historic Victory at the LPBA Championship 2025–2026
Cambodia’s leading carom billiards player, Sruong Pheavy, has once again etched her name in the annals of cue sports history by clinching the LPBA Championship 2025–2026 title in South Korea. Her victory not only marks a personal milestone but also serves as a beacon of national pride for Cambodia, a country where billiards is rapidly gaining recognition thanks to her achievements.
Pheavy’s journey to the championship was marked by determination, resilience, and a deep sense of responsibility to her homeland. As the only female Cambodian athlete in the tournament, she faced off against some of the world’s top players, ultimately defeating South Korea’s Bo-ra Kim in a commanding final match. This win marks her eighth LPBA title, solidifying her status as one of the most successful players in the history of the Ladies Professional Billiards Association (LPBA).
How Did Sruong Pheavy Secure the Title?
The LPBA Championship is one of the most prestigious events in women’s professional billiards, attracting elite players from across the globe. The 2025–2026 edition, held in South Korea, featured a rigorous format with multiple elimination rounds, each demanding both technical skill and mental fortitude.
Pheavy’s path to the final was anything but easy. In the round of 16, she overcame Japan’s Ayako Sakai, a formidable opponent and one of the top earners in the LPBA circuit. She then advanced through the quarterfinals and semifinals, defeating two highly ranked South Korean players. The semifinal, in particular, was a dramatic affair, with Pheavy mounting a comeback after trailing in the early sets—a testament to her resilience under pressure.
In the final, Pheavy faced Bo-ra Kim, a rising star in Korean billiards. The match, played under the best-of-seven sets format with an 11-point system per set, saw Pheavy dominate with a final score of 11–2. This decisive victory not only earned her the championship but also showcased her technical mastery and strategic acumen.
The Road to the Final: Key Matches and Turning Points
Pheavy’s semifinal clash against Kim Se-yeon was particularly noteworthy. After losing the first two sets (10–11, 2–11), Pheavy staged a remarkable comeback, winning the next three sets (11–6, 11–3, 11–6) to secure her place in the final. This performance highlighted her ability to adapt her strategy mid-match and maintain composure in high-stakes situations.
Her victory in the semifinals was not just a personal triumph but also a significant moment for Cambodian sports. As Mara Socheat, Secretary-General of the Cambodia Billiards and Snooker Federation (CBSF), expressed confidence in Pheavy’s abilities, her success has become a source of inspiration for aspiring athletes in Cambodia.
What Makes Sruong Pheavy a Standout Champion?
Sruong Pheavy’s rise to the top of the LPBA is a story of perseverance and dedication. Born in Tboung Khmum province, Cambodia, she moved to South Korea over a decade ago, seeking better opportunities to develop her billiards career. Despite living abroad, Pheavy has remained deeply connected to her homeland, often dedicating her victories to the Cambodian people and using her platform to promote the sport back home.
Her commitment extends beyond the billiards table. Pheavy is known for her charitable work, having established the Pheavy Foundation, which supports educational and social initiatives in Cambodia. Much of her prize money is channeled into these projects, reflecting her belief in giving back to her community.
In her own words, Pheavy described the challenges she faced during the tournament:
“For almost a year and a half, I’ve borne heavy responsibilities, injuries and pain—all in the name of national pride. I pushed myself through it all to win for the people, for everything, and for you (referring to the Cambodian and Korean flags).”
This sense of duty and resilience has endeared her to fans in both Cambodia and South Korea, making her one of the most-watched and celebrated players in the sport.
The Significance of the LPBA Championship in Women’s Billiards
The Ladies Professional Billiards Association (LPBA) Championship is the pinnacle of women’s professional carom billiards. The tournament’s format, which includes a time-clock and a best-of-seven sets structure, tests players’ technical skills, strategic thinking, and mental endurance. Winning the LPBA title is a mark of excellence, and Pheavy’s eighth championship cements her legacy as a dominant force in the sport.
Historically, the LPBA has been dominated by South Korean and Japanese players, with names like Ga-young Kim and Jung-suk Lim frequently appearing in the winner’s circle. Pheavy’s consistent success has disrupted this pattern, bringing greater diversity and international attention to the league.
Her rivalry with Ga-young Kim, in particular, has become a focal point of the LPBA. Both players have now won eight titles each, setting the stage for future showdowns that will likely define the next era of women’s billiards.
Challenges and Triumphs: The Personal Side of Pheavy’s Journey
Pheavy’s journey has not been without its hardships. Competing at the highest level requires not only physical skill but also mental resilience. Over the past year, she has battled injuries and the pressures of representing her country on the international stage. Despite these obstacles, she has continued to perform at an elite level, driven by a desire to bring honor to Cambodia.
Her success has also been fueled by the support of sponsors and fans. Living in South Korea, Pheavy has built a network of supporters who have helped her navigate the challenges of professional sports. She has often expressed gratitude for this support, noting that it has been instrumental in her continued success.
“As long as this Cambodian daughter keeps stepping up to compete, the louder the cheers get, the more famous she becomes, and the more the world learns about her country. I’ve become the most-watched player—and I still managed to win under the most intense pressure.”
This connection with her audience has made Pheavy a role model for young athletes, particularly women, in Cambodia and beyond.
The Broader Impact: Elevating Cambodian Sports on the Global Stage
Pheavy’s achievements have had a ripple effect on the perception of sports in Cambodia. Traditionally, the country has not been known for its prowess in cue sports, but Pheavy’s international victories have changed that narrative. Her success at the LPBA and other major tournaments has inspired a new generation of Cambodian athletes to pursue excellence in billiards and other disciplines.
Her gold and bronze medals at the 2023 Southeast Asian (SEA) Games, hosted by Cambodia, were particularly significant. These achievements brought national attention to the sport and demonstrated that Cambodian athletes can compete—and win—at the highest levels.
According to Mara Socheat of the CBSF, Pheavy’s victories have elevated the profile of Cambodian billiards, encouraging greater investment in training and development programs. The hope is that her success will pave the way for more Cambodian players to make their mark on the international stage.
Rivalries and Records: The Competitive Landscape of the LPBA
The LPBA is home to some of the most talented female billiards players in the world. Sruong Pheavy’s rivalry with South Korea’s Ga-young Kim has become one of the defining narratives of the league. Both players have now secured eight LPBA titles, and their head-to-head matches are eagerly anticipated by fans and analysts alike.
Other notable competitors include Jung-suk Lim and Ayako Sakai, each of whom has contributed to the high level of competition in the league. The presence of international players like Pheavy has added a new dimension to the LPBA, making it a truly global competition.
Prize money in the LPBA has also increased in recent years, reflecting the growing popularity and professionalism of the sport. Top players can now earn significant sums, with the winner of the LPBA World Championship taking home up to 100 million Korean won (approximately $75,000 USD). This financial incentive has attracted more talent to the league and raised the overall standard of play.
Charity, Community, and Legacy: Pheavy’s Off-Table Contributions
Beyond her achievements on the billiards table, Sruong Pheavy is deeply committed to charitable work. The Pheavy Foundation, which she founded a decade ago, supports a range of initiatives in Cambodia, including education, healthcare, and social welfare programs. The foundation is funded by Pheavy’s prize money, as well as donations from Korean enterprises and individuals.
Bo-ra Kim, Pheavy’s opponent in the 2025–2026 LPBA final, has also been involved in the foundation, serving as a director and supporting its activities. This collaboration highlights the sense of camaraderie and mutual respect that exists among top players in the league.
Pheavy’s charitable efforts have not gone unnoticed. She is widely regarded as a role model, not only for her sporting achievements but also for her commitment to giving back to her community. Her legacy is likely to extend far beyond the billiards table, inspiring future generations to pursue excellence and make a positive impact in their own communities.
What’s Next for Sruong Pheavy and Cambodian Billiards?
With her eighth LPBA title secured, Sruong Pheavy shows no signs of slowing down. She continues to train rigorously, with her sights set on future championships and further international success. Her ongoing rivalry with Ga-young Kim and other top players promises to keep the LPBA at the forefront of women’s professional billiards.
For Cambodia, Pheavy’s achievements represent a new chapter in the country’s sporting history. As more young athletes are inspired by her example, the hope is that Cambodia will continue to produce world-class talent in billiards and other sports.
Pheavy’s story is a testament to the power of perseverance, the importance of community support, and the impact that one individual can have on a nation’s sporting identity. As she continues to compete and inspire, her legacy is assured.
In Summary
- Sruong Pheavy won the LPBA Championship 2025–2026 in South Korea, marking her eighth LPBA title.
- She overcame top international competitors, including a dramatic semifinal comeback and a decisive final victory over Bo-ra Kim.
- Pheavy’s achievements have elevated the profile of Cambodian billiards and inspired a new generation of athletes.
- Her rivalry with Ga-young Kim is a highlight of the LPBA, with both players now holding eight titles each.
- Beyond sports, Pheavy is known for her charitable work through the Pheavy Foundation, supporting education and social initiatives in Cambodia.
- Her success is a source of national pride and a catalyst for the growth of cue sports in Cambodia.
