by Ben Hudd • August 8, 2023
Francisco Sanchez Ruiz will make his second successive appearance on the European team this December as the Mosconi Cup returns to London’s iconic Alexandra Palace.
World number one Sanchez Ruiz has been named as the first qualifier through the World Nineball Tour rankings and will therefore compete in the 30th edition of the famous tournament.
The Spaniard held down a $30,700 lead over Eklent Kaci heading into this week’s European Open, with his World Pool Championship success back in February ultimately sealing him a London berth.
“I feel unbelievable. Last year I experienced my dream which was to play at least once in the Mosconi Cup. It was the best experience of my life,” Sanchez Ruiz expressed following the announcement.
“I never expected anything because I had never been to the Mosconi Cup. When I entered the arena, I can’t explain what I felt – so much pressure! The crowd was amazing. I think the Mosconi Cup is the best tournament in the world.
“The crowd makes the difference. It is unbelievable to play in front of 3,000 people, especially when you play for your team. I think I brought 25 people to Las Vegas. This year it will be at least double! I’m in the team early so I can figure out how to bring people to London. I’m really excited.
“The pressure is going to be different. I remember the first shot I played last year, I scratched. I can feel the pressure. This year is going to be different but I will enjoy every single moment there.
“The Mosconi Cup is the goal for everyone. When I started playing in January, I was thinking about the Mosconi. It’s special because you work so hard to maintain form to stay in the team.
“The end of this season is going to be tough. We have a busy schedule and I will be working hard to make sure I can show my best for my team in December.”
The first spot on the American team will be confirmed following this week’s European Open in Germany, with Skyler Woodward currently leading Shane van Boening by roughy $10,000.
Places on both teams via the world rankings will also be confirmed following next month’s US Open and October’s Asian Open, before the final two wildcards are selected by the respective captains.
