As temperatures soared to 32°C outside, the atmosphere inside the Hotel Alpina Alpendorf remained cool and focused as the Predator Austrian Open reached its business end. After eight grueling rounds, the field has been narrowed to the last 16, with Germany leading the charge—six players remain in contention, including legends Ralf Souquet and Stefan Kasper.
However, one major name is missing from the final phase: Joshua Filler, who suffered a shock defeat at the hands of fellow German Ugur Turku. Turku took control early and never looked back, sealing a commanding 11-5 victory—equaling his best-ever Euro Tour result. He now faces Roman Hybler for a place in the quarterfinals.
“I put some pressure early and kept the lead,” said Turku. “Now I’m just focusing on the next match. Anything can happen at this stage.”
🏆 New Blood Chasing Glory
Felix Vogel, one of the most promising young Germans on tour, cruised past Emil Andre Gangflot 11-3 in a dominant display. Twice a runner-up on the Euro Tour, Vogel is eager to break through with a first title.
“It was a long day—five or six matches—but I’m happy to be in the last 16,” said Vogel. “Emil couldn’t find his rhythm, but I stayed focused. Now I want to go all the way.”
Aleksa Pecelj of Serbia also impressed, overpowering Szymon Kural 11-3 with a flurry of break-and-runs. Pecelj, who has flirted with the winner’s circle before, feels this might be his breakthrough moment.
“I started strong and kept control,” Pecelj noted. “My game is there—I just need a little luck and to stay calm. Hopefully, this is my time.”
🔥 Thriller on the TV Table
In one of the day’s most anticipated matchups, Sanjin Pehlivanovic edged past Austrian favorite Max Lechner 11-9 in a thrilling, high-quality contest. The Bosnian star delivered nine break-and-runs to stay in control and believes he’s playing championship-caliber pool.
“Max played great, but I’m feeling really good this week,” said Pehlivanovic. “If I keep breaking and shooting like this, I believe I can win it.”
🗓️ What’s Next?
- 🕙 Saturday, 10:00 – Round of 16
- 🕒 15:00 & 17:30 – Semi-finals
- 🕗 20:00 – Final showdown for the Predator Austrian Open title
The Women’s Predator Austrian Open also kicks off Saturday at 09:00, featuring a 64-player field. The tournament runs through Sunday’s final at 17:00, with races to 7 (double elimination) and 9 (single elimination), under the two-rack alternate break format.
📺 Watch Live:
- Tables 1 & 2 streamed all weekend via Pro Billiard TV on YouTube
