03/11/2026
FROM A ₱50 CADDIE TO A MILLION-DOLLAR WORLD CHAMPION
Before becoming one of the world's most respected professional billiards players and reportedly reaching an estimated net worth of $1 million (approximately ₱58 million), Carlo "The Black Tiger" Biado experienced a life filled with poverty, sacrifice, heartbreak, and years of relentless hard work.
But his story is not simply about winning millions. It is about a young boy who once struggled to help his family survive and eventually became a world champion.
A CHILDHOOD SHAPED BY POVERTY
Carlo Biado was born on October 31, 1983, in the Philippines. His early life was far from easy. At just 13 years old, he stopped attending school during his first year of high school because of financial difficulties. His father had also left the family, leaving his mother to raise their children amid difficult circumstances.
While other children focused on their studies and enjoyed their childhood, Carlo was already thinking about how to help his family put food on the table.
FROM TEE BOY AND CADDIE TO A BILLIARDS DREAMER
To support his family, Carlo worked as a tee boy and caddie at Villamor Air Base Golf Course.
His earnings were incredibly small, reportedly receiving only around ₱50 to ₱200 in tips for carrying golf equipment and assisting players.
It was not a glamorous job, but every peso mattered.
However, something else was quietly developing during those difficult days: his passion for billiards.
After working at the golf course, Carlo would spend time playing pool. He used the little money he earned to participate in money games, where he gradually developed his skills, confidence, and competitive mentality.
What began as a way to earn additional income eventually became the foundation of his professional career.
TEN YEARS OF STRUGGLES BEFORE BECOMING A WORLD CHAMPION
Carlo officially entered the professional billiards scene in 2004.
But success did not come overnight.
For years, he competed against some of the world's finest players, experiencing defeats, disappointments, and countless challenges. Despite his determination, major international titles remained out of reach.
Many people dream of becoming world champions, but only a few are willing to endure years of setbacks without giving up.
Carlo continued working on his game, learning from every defeat and patiently waiting for his opportunity.
Then, in 2017, everything changed.
He captured the WPA World Nine-ball Championship, defeating Japan's Naoyuki Oi in the final and finally achieving the world title he had worked so hard for.
It was a defining moment that transformed his career and established him among the elite players in international billiards.
THE PANDEMIC BROUGHT ANOTHER UNEXPECTED CHALLENGE
Just when life seemed to be moving in a better direction, another major obstacle arrived.
In 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted the billiards industry. Tournaments and money games disappeared, while the couple's Shawarma Shack franchise business also reportedly closed.
With five children to support and household expenses continuing to pile up, Carlo and his wife faced another difficult decision.
They eventually traveled to the United States to pursue opportunities in billiards and earn money during a time when professional tournaments in the Philippines were limited.
It was another reminder that even world champions experience financial uncertainty and personal sacrifices.
FROM STRUGGLING CADDIE TO INTERNATIONAL BILLIARDS SUPERSTAR
Carlo's determination eventually brought him back to the biggest stages in the sport.
In 2021, he made history by winning the prestigious World Pool Championship for the second time, defeating Singapore's Aloysius Yapp in the final.
He also captured the 2022 U.S. Open Pool Championship, further strengthening his reputation as one of the most dangerous competitors in professional nine-ball billiards.
His achievements brought him international recognition, significant prize money, sponsorship opportunities, and a career that once seemed impossible during his childhood.
Today, Carlo "The Black Tiger" Biado stands as one of the proud representatives of Philippine billiards.
His estimated $1 million net worth has been reported by some online sources, although the exact figure has not been independently verified.
But regardless of the actual amount of his wealth, one thing is undeniable: his journey from earning small tips as a caddie to becoming a multiple-time world champion is extraordinary.
A LEGACY BIGGER THAN MONEY
Carlo Biado's story teaches us that success is not always about where you begin. Sometimes, the greatest champions come from the most difficult circumstances.
From carrying golf bags for a few pesos to carrying the hopes of an entire nation on the international billiards stage, Carlo proved that determination, patience, and hard work can open doors that once seemed impossible.
He is not just a billiards champion. He is a symbol of perseverance and Filipino excellence.
🇵🇠From a young boy who struggled to help his family survive to a world champion who made the Philippines proud — this is the incredible journey of Carlo "The Black Tiger" Biado.
