Pool champion, 40, dies hours after match as tributes pour in for former world No. 1

Taiwanese pool legend Chang Jung-Lin has tragically passed away at just 40 years old whilst participating in a tournament. Chang, dubbed 'Devil Fire Cloud' in his homeland, had completed his last-32 encounter in the Indonesia Open 10-Ball pool championship in Jakarta on Sunday before being discovered unconscious at his hotel, tournament officials have confirmed.

The veteran had contested his fixture at 10am before returning to his accommodation to recuperate ahead of his planned last-16 clash with Yoni Rachmanto at 4pm. However, he was subsequently discovered by a tournament representative in the hotel's rest area.

Initial findings indicate that Chang experienced a stroke after suffering a cardiac arrest, with his death officially announced at 9pm by the World Pool-Billiards Association (WPA).

The WPA paid tribute to Chang's loved ones in a Monday statement which hailed him as "a hero to a generation of Taiwanese players".

They also praised his "unforgettable performances that left an indelible mark on the hearts of fans and peers alike."

The statement declared: "Beyond his accomplishments in competition, Chang was a quiet leader, an inspiration to the next generation, and a true ambassador of the sport. We have lost a legend, but his spirit, sportsmanship, and contributions to cue sports will never be forgotten."

Fedor Gorst, the Russian-American pool sensation, took to social media to honour Chang, describing him as "one of the greatest talents our sport has ever seen" and adding: "Pool is a beautiful game, but also a tough one. Behind the focus and precision, many of us learn to hide our struggles well. You'll be deeply missed, Chang."

Chang's journey in professional billiards began in 2000, quickly gaining international attention with his runner-up finishes at the WPA Junior World 9-Ball Championship in 2001 and 2003.

He made an impressive entrance into the World 9-Ball Championship in 2005, advancing to the round of 16 in his first appearance. His crowning achievements included clinching the WPA World 8-Ball Championship in 2012 and the WPA World Team Championship the following year.

In addition to these accolades, Chang secured a silver medal in the 9-ball event at the 2013 World Games and triumphed at the Asian 10-Ball Championship in 2024.

Chang's influence on Taiwanese billiards is indelible, with many considering him a trailblazer for the sport in Taiwan. The Chinese Taipei Billiards Association paid homage to his contributions, expressing gratitude with the words, "Thank you for your years of hard work for billiards and bringing honor to the country."