FILIPINO pool legend Francisco “Django” Bustamante flashed his old deadly form and scored a 4-1, 4-1 win over American Bobby Garza at the start of the 2025 Las Vegas 10-Ball Open at Rio All Suite Hotel and Casino on Thursday (Philippine time), February 20.

The 61-year-old Bustamante showcased his dreaded shot-making ability that netted him several titles in the past, making some tough shots to score the easy win.

The victory sent Bustamante to the next stage of the 128-player tournament that offers $37,500 (roughly P2.1 million) to the champion.

Bustamante, an Asian Games gold medalist, will next face Germany’s Ralf Souquet on Friday, February 21 (Manila time).

Aside from Bustamante, three other Filipinos also barged into the winners’ circle.

Jeffrey De Luna dominated Japan’s Masashi Myojo, 4-1, 4-1, and will next play USA’s Tim Tonjum. Mark Estiola edged out Germany’s Fabian Breuer, 4-3, 4-2 to arrange a highly anticipated duel with Fil-Canadian Alex Pagulayan.

Pagulayan advanced to the next stage by scoring a 4-3, 4-0 winner over Puerto Rican Francisco Serran San Miguel.

Roberto Gomez is also off to a winning start after he drubbed Indonesian Hendra Kurniawan, 4-2, 4-1.

Chezka Centeno and Rubilen Amit are also vying in the event's women's division and will see action on February 26.(CCM)

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