Will Billiards / Pocket Billiards ever make it into the Olympics?

Question

Billiards has had such a long and rich history.

Which game has the best chance to be an olympic sport?

One-Pocket / 9-Ball / 14.1 Continuous / 3-Cushion / 8-Ball?

Answer 1

any sport that is traditionally played while drinking alcohol and smoking is probably not going to be considered to be an olympic event. this would likely rule out bowling as well

Answer 2

I think it's possible. Taiwan and some other asian countries are now lobbying the IOC. I think it will be 9-ball, but I'm a snooker guy myself.

Answer 3

i think the answer is yes; we will see billiards as an olympic event probably in the next 10 years.  

as the the answer why american football is not played at the olympics is simple.  it is not a world wide sport.  billiards on the other hand is played all across the world.  if they can make curling an olympic sport  (which is probably the worst thing to actually watch on TV) then billiards stands an exceptional chance.

when it does get to olympics probably 9-ball, 14.1 and 8-ball will be played with single and team competition

Answer 4

Nobody ever thought that Ping-Pong or Snow Boarding would make it, so you never know. 9 Ball seems to be the hot tournament game now so that may influence any decision making down the road.

Answer 5

Hmmph...

I don't want to sound like I am degrading the activity, I am not.  I like to watch someone really skilled play it.

But, let's face it.  When you have a player called "Minnesota fats" you ain't making it into the Olympics.  You might note that American Football is not there either, and never will be.  Might I mention "The Refrigerator"

-Dio

Answer 6

Pool and billiards may make it some day, but I doubt if pocket pool will ever be a sport unless it is judged by men only.