Cueing up: Wentworth pool player aims to pocket global glory

ETHAN ‘Killer Lytie’ Chetty, a promising young talent in cue sports, is poised to represent South Africa on the international stage. The 19-year-old has earned spots in the inaugural Heyball World Championships in Slovenia this September and the Blackball World Championships in the UK.

However, Ethan faces a significant financial challenge as he needs to raise R60 000 to cover the costs of competing in both prestigious tournaments.

Also read: Fairvale’s teen pool champ competes in tourney

Career:

Since turning professional in 2019, Ethan has swiftly risen through the ranks to become one of South Africa’s top junior players. “I’ve grown as a junior player among the best in the country. My passion, dedication and talent have played a big role in my development, and I’ve learned the importance of a strong mindset as pool is very much a mental game,” Ethan shared.

Ethan’s journey hasn’t been without its obstacles, but his resilience has been a crucial factor in his success. “I’ve learned that it’s okay to lose and make mistakes because there’s always room for improvement. My strong mentality, dedication and deep passion for the sport have helped me build a reputation that I’m incredibly proud of. I aim to be the best and pursue a career in pool on an international level, taking advantage of every opportunity to compete worldwide,” he added.

Heyball vs Blackball

Heyball, also known as Chinese 8-ball, differs from traditional Blackball with its larger table, bigger balls and distinct rules. Ethan’s skill in both variations has opened doors for international competitions, including three previous chances to compete abroad.

Future

Having completed his matric at Fairvale Secondary last year, Ethan is now fully dedicated to his professional career. He is seeking community support to help fund his journey and hopes his story will inspire more young people to take up cue sports, especially with the sport set to be recognised in the 2032 Olympics. “I’m extremely passionate about this sport and ready to tackle any challenges that come my way,” Ethan said.

Fans can follow Ethan’s journey on TikTok under the handle @therealchetty, where he shares videos and highlights of his matches. For sponsorship opportunities, supporters can contact his father, Pat Chetty, at 065 930 5633.

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