Pooling Their Skills: Barry Hearn and Andy Goldstein Enter US Open as Wildcards

Sporting legend Barry Hearn, 76, and former Sky Sports presenter Andy Goldstein are set to make a surprise appearance at the US Open Pool Championship as wildcard entrants. The duo, known for their careers in boxing, football, and broadcasting, will be taking on the world's best pool players in Atlantic City.

Hearn, the founder and president of Matchroom Sport, has a long history with the sport of pool, having worked within the industry for many years. His involvement in the US Open, scheduled for 19-20 August, marks his return to competitive play. Fans will be able to watch the action unfold on Sky Sports.

Goldstein, currently a talkSPORT radio host, is no stranger to sporting challenges. He is confident that he can compete with the pool professionals, even aiming for a title win.

Matchroom Pool confirmed the wildcard entries, stating: "The World Nineball Tour are delighted to announce that Barry Hearn OBE, Matchroom Sports President, and Andy Goldstein, renowned TalkSport Radio host, will be competing as wildcard players at the US Open Pool Championship."

Hearn, known for his underdog spirit, is looking forward to the challenge, admitting that he is happy to simply win a single rack in his first round match. He said, “To walk out there and play against one of 128 players from the World Nineball Tour, which are the 128 best Nineball players in the world, is incredible. If I win one rack in the first round, I’ll sleep happy."

With a £233,000 prize pot on offer, the improbable could become reality if either Hearn or Goldstein manage to pull off an unexpected victory at the US Open. Their entry adds a unique twist to the tournament, promising a thrilling spectacle for pool enthusiasts and casual viewers alike.