This mini interview with Earl Strickland took place upon his return to the states after winning his third WPA Pool Championship in Cardiff Wales in July 2002.

AZB: First off, congratulations on the win in Cardiff. Can you tell us what the win out there meant to you?

Earl: The last time I won the WPA World Event was in 1990 and 1991, and it feels good to win this event once again. The best feeling for winning this tourney is that it is held in Cardiff Live to 3 hundred million people around the world. It is also the toughest field in the world.

AZB: Bustamante had the lead at 15-13 and was breaking when he scratched on the break. Can you tell us what went through your mind at that point in the match?

Earl: Well, I realized it was a golden opportunity to give myself a chance to win the match. He was breaking the balls very well throughout the match and at 15-13 he could of very well ended the match himself, instead Francisco hit to far below the center of the cue ball and stratched in the corner pocket.

AZB: You have won three world championships now. Is this one the sweetest?

Earl: Most definitely. This particular field was extremely difficult and the players are much better today than they were in 1990 and 91.

AZB: Any predictions for the US Open this year?

Earl: Yes, I feel very good having won the world title in Cardiff, but everyone knows the US Open is just as difficult to win as the world title. One of my goals is to win the world title and the US Open in one year.

AZB: Thanks Earl, any last comments before we let you go?

Earl: Yes, I would like to take the time to thank my sponsors; J-S Sales and Cuetec for thier sponsorship and all the people in Cardiff who put on a well organized event.

Photo courtesy of Bill Greer.