The 5 most noble aspects of billiards

Billiard (competition) has a number of features that make it one of the noblest sports that exist. That's the main reason I'm still in love with the game. Today we are going to see five examples of honesty that are repeated, fortunately, in every game. Here we go:

1- The greeting

It is something sacred. Without greeting (handshake) can not start the game nor finish. These are for me two of the most special moments of the encounter. And what do we say in the greeting? There are those who wish luck, others "good match" and others simply nod with their heads. No matter what, the important thing is to shake hands before the battle. And in the end, of course.

2- The applause

There are not many sports that praise a good play of the rival. Billiards, fortunately, is one of them. There are many symbolic gestures (finger clicks, chalk on the shaft, shaft on the band) with which we can approve a great shot or a super defense. Not all billiard players, but many. The applause is another jewel of the pool that we should protect.

3- Apologies

Ask for forgiveness when you had some luck. Nor is it often the case in competitive sports environments. "Fuck you," some will think when you leave a bad shot to the opponent unintentionally. I prefer to be honest and apologize, because I did not mean to. And because I would like the rival to do it also if it had happened the other way around.

4- The invisible fault

There are details of the game that go completely unnoticed. One of them is the typical lack that you make when touching a ball slightly without the rival, or anyone, realizes. If the billiard player is honest, he will let them know. If not, he will be done (and will carry with that crap in his conscience the rest of the game). Although it implies losing the game because there are only three balls left on the table, telling the invisible fault is, for me, something sacred.

5- Respect

And I mean we respect the opponent's turn. How? Keeping silence, keeping us as still as possible. And seated, please, seated. When I am at the table I greatly appreciate the rival's respect for me, for example, that he is watching the game and not Whatsapp. That is why I try to be respectful to the maximum when it is he who is playing.

So far the 5 most noble aspects of billiards. It is clear that there is always the smart guy who goes through the lining these unwritten rules, it is inevitable that in all sports occurs. But overall I think most billiard players who compete in tournaments would pass an honesty test.

You know, to be a top plater you not only have to master the technique and know how to make good shots, you also have to respect the opponent and, above all, the game. I invite you to do it, always. You will see how that helps you to attract positive results and good dynamics.

Can you think of any other characteristic of billiards that makes this sport noble? Share it in the comments :)

PD: Shaun Murphy's picture is no accident. Plus a Snooker super billiard player is a great gentleman on the rug. An example to follow.