SEA Games 2025: Gilchrist reclaims English billiards singles title

Peter Gilchrist in action during the SEA Games English billiards final on Dec 12. Photo: SNOC/ Kelly Wong

Peter Gilchrist reclaimed his SEA Games crown with a commanding 3-0 victory over Pauk Sa of Myanmar in the English billiards singles final on Dec 12. 

The 57-year-old Singaporean had won six SEA Games golds in this event before losing the title to the same opponent at the last two editions. 

Peter Gilchrist with his ninth SEA Games gold medal. Photo: SNOC/ Kelly Wong

Gilchrist vanquished those demons at the Thunder Dome Muang Thong Thani in Bangkok, winning 100-48, 102-59, 100-40 for his ninth SEA Games title. 

"I played really well in the semi-finals (against Thailand's Praput Chaithanasakun), probably as good as I can play in the semi-finals," said Gilchrist. 

"I made two 100 unfinished breaks. My last game in the quarter-finals (against Marlando Sihombing of Indonesia), I made a 100 unfinished, so I was coming here thinking… to be honest, I know it didn’t happen but I wanted to beat (Sa) like 100 and 100 and 100, and that was my plan in my mind. But it didn’t materialise, and all best plans can go out the window sometimes.

"It wasn't easy, but a win is a win, so I've got to be happy. The table rolled off a little bit (in the third frame), so I was a little bit cautious of it, and I started second-guessing myself. But luckily, it all came right in the end. It was an ugly finish, but there you go."

Peter Gilchrist reclaimed his SEA Games crown with a 3-0 win over Pauk Sa of Myanmar on Dec 12. Photo: SNOC/ Kelly Wong

The five-time World Billiards Championships winner described the SEA Games as being “everything” to him. 

“I’ve won five world titles, three IBSF (International Billiards and Snooker Federation) world titles, but the SEA Games means a lot more today. My first world championships, that was pretty special. But after that, because this is for the country, I feel so honoured to represent Singapore,” added Gilchrist, who intends to keep playing the sport he loves “until my wife tells me to stop”.

Naturally, he is looking forward to returning for the team event on Dec 13. “I feel as if I’m cueing the ball well, and Karthik (Ramaswamy) is playing all right as well, so we’ve got a good chance.”

The 33rd SEA Games are held in Thailand from 9 to 20 December 2025. For the latest Team Singapore coverage and news, follow Team Singapore on their social media channels (Facebook, Instagram, TikTok) or visit the official Team Singapore website.