2026 WNT SEASON PREVIEW
As the new year on the World Nineball Tour gathers pace, anticipation is building for another thrilling season of elite nine-ball competition. With global majors, emerging stars and potential team debuts on the horizon, respected pundits Phil Yates and Michael McMullan have shared their predictions for what could unfold across the 2026 campaign.
From potential dominant forces to rising juniors and possible first-time major champions, here’s what they believe fans should be watching closely this year.
Who Could Dominate in 2026?
McMullan believes the ever-dangerous Fedor Gorst could be poised for a major resurgence.
Despite what many perceived as a quieter 2025, Gorst was still within touching distance of defending two of the sport’s biggest titles.
“It says a lot about how good Fedor Gorst was in 2024 that we were talking about him having a slump in ’25,” McMullan said. “He was only a couple of racks away from retaining his title at both the World Championship and the US Open. I think he could be back winning a few big events this year.”
Yates, meanwhile, points to one of the game’s most explosive talents: Joshua Filler.
“Domination in nine-ball is nigh on impossible,” he explained. “But Filler has the game to get closer than anyone.”
Rising Stars to Watch
For McMullan, the future remains incredibly bright for Moritz Neuhausen, who impressed the world with his fearless performances and standout debut at the Mosconi Cup.
“He was walking ten feet tall after getting the Mosconi MVP on debut, and with such a good attitude and work ethic, I think there’s no limit to what he might do in the next few years.”
Yates highlights Arseni Sevastyanov, whose victory over Shane Van Boening at the US Open Pool Championship caught the attention of many.
“The way he beat SVB at the US Open, then reached the final in the Philippines tells me he might develop into a force.”
Could We See New Major Champions?
Both pundits see strong potential for new names to join the sport’s list of major winners.
McMullan believes Jonas Souto is edging closer to a breakthrough moment.
“If you’re looking for steady progress over the last couple of years, Jonas Souto is the man. He looks very comfortable on the big occasion, and his best form is a joy to watch.”
Yates nominates Daniel Maciol as another contender ready to take the next step.
“He’s knocked on the door a few times already and while you can never be sure it will open, the Pole has undoubted class.”
Breakout Candidates
McMullan again singles out Souto as a player who could elevate his standing even further this season, highlighting his composure in high-pressure matches and steady improvement across recent seasons.
Juniors Ready to Shine
The future of the sport looks bright, with several exciting young talents making waves.
McMullan is particularly impressed by 15-year-old New Zealander Jack Beggs.
“Jack Beggs was so impressive as he racked up the trophies in ’25. Still only 15, he’s one of those players who looks like he was born to have a cue in his hand.”
Yates points to Indonesian prodigy Albert Januarta, as well as rising American talent Savannah Easton.
“Savannah moves the needle stateside, so improvement from her would be brilliant for the game as a whole.”
Potential Surprise Storylines
Every season produces unexpected breakthroughs, and both pundits believe 2026 could deliver its share of surprises.
McMullan suggests the possibility of a new American star emerging, particularly with several major events scheduled across the United States.
Yates offers a left-field pick: former snooker professional Fraser Patrick, who he believes could cause problems for established players if he enters events such as the UK Open Pool Championship.
Possible Team Event Debuts
Team competitions remain a major highlight of the season, particularly the Mosconi Cup and Reyes Cup.
McMullan believes Filipino talent Bernie Regalario could earn a place on Team Asia in the Reyes Cup, while American prospect Lukas Fracasso-Verner might bring fresh energy to Team USA in Orlando.
Yates, meanwhile, would love to see Japanese fan favourite Naoyuki Oi representing Team Asia, with Souto potentially making his Mosconi Cup debut for Team Europe.
He also suggested that Jesus Atencio could inject excitement into Team USA if eligible for selection.
With established champions chasing more silverware and a wave of emerging talent eager to break through, the 2026 season on the World Nineball Tour promises another unforgettable year for fans around the globe.
