Scott Frost has revealed that Justin Bergman is going to make an anticipated full-time return next year in an attempt to regain his place on the American team for the Mosconi Cup.
World Nineball Tour commentator Frost highlighted his captaincy credentials on social media, during a live stream in which he made known Bergman’s intentions to qualify for the USA team on points in 2026.
Bergman represented the Americans in 2014, 2015, 2016 and 2019 and was selected in 2020 before testing positive for coronavirus. He was also notably part of the last successful stars and stripes team.
Despite previously being reluctant to travel abroad, the 38-year-old from Illinois has vowed to play overseas somewhat and do everything in his power to make a return to the American team.
“A couple of years ago, I had reached out to a player that hasn’t been around a lot. His name is Justin Bergman,” Frost told his 54,000 followers on Facebook live.
“I felt, and I’ve felt for years, that Justin was the second best player in America. There’s no questions asked, especially all around. Not only that, he’s liked by so many players, so many people.
“A couple of years ago, he wasn’t ready to play, and I totally respected that. He just didn’t feel he was ready. So then about a year ago, I touched base with him again.
“I guess I’ll just fast forward to in the last couple of weeks… Justin and I have been on the phone a lot, and I guess I’ll just say it, I’ve talked to Justin and he’s given me the permission.
“He’s going to chase the cup this year. He’s going to play some events overseas, and he’s going to do whatever he can to make Team USA. If he performs, and I think he can perform, I think that’s a huge benefit.
“Here’s what I can promise you, Justin’s doing very, very well, I can absolutely promise you that. His health is as good as it’s ever been. His mindset is as good as it’s ever been. He’s excited to play for Team USA.”
Having won his only Mosconi Cup title in Las Vegas six years ago, Bergman could make his Mosconi Cup return from November 27-30 in Orlando, Florida.
