Title: Pool and Billiards – Splitting Cash or Splitting Glory?

When it comes to pool, especially in high-stakes matches, there’s a concept that divides players and fans alike: splitting the cash prize. Sure, taking the money and running sounds tempting, especially after a long day of matches, but here’s an unpopular opinion that might shake things up: you can split the cash, but you can’t split the podium. When all eyes are on you in that final match, there’s only room for one champion.

This moment, the final match, is the pinnacle of the night. It’s the point where skill, pride, and endurance collide. Typically, there’s a big cash swing in the balance, but even more importantly, there’s honor and recognition at stake. Nowadays, with so many games streamed, it’s not just a match you can hide from—it’s a public showdown, a moment that’s preserved and shared.

Yet there’s a trend that seems to keep popping up in competitive pool: splitting the prize in the finals. This isn’t about taking shortcuts or disrespecting the game; most players do it because they’ve worked hard to reach that point and splitting can feel like a practical choice, especially after hours of intense competition. But here’s the question: are we dodging that final match because of a fear of faltering under pressure?

Why Playing the Final Matters

Every player knows the feeling: your hands are shaky, your focus is waning, your mental edge has been worn down by match after match. Winning isn’t just about skill; it’s about resilience, that last reserve of energy you dig into to power through when the stakes are highest. When you split and don’t play the final, you miss that opportunity to test yourself at the peak.

The beauty of this game is in those do-or-die moments when you’re exhausted, your equipment is barely hanging in there, and the guy across the table is at his sharpest. That’s what true pool is: pushing through discomfort, tiredness, and any doubts gnawing at you. Champions are made in that crucible. It’s one of the greatest aspects of pool because it shows who can hold their own when it counts.

Missing Out on Growth by Splitting

Many seasoned players can recall times they split, and in some ways, it made sense. There’s a feeling of relief when you shake hands, split the cash, and walk away. But when you get home, a question lingers: did I take the easy way out? The truth is, missing or "dogging" a shot, as painful as it is, is part of the learning process. Facing that final game and risking a miss is where growth happens.

For those watching, especially newer players, there’s a lesson to be learned. Seeing champions fight it out in that final match shows aspiring players what it means to compete under pressure. It’s not about going easy on yourself but testing your limits and coming out stronger on the other side.

The Champion’s Mindset

The truth is, not everyone can stomach that kind of pressure. Splitting is easier than putting everything on the line. But imagine what pool would look like if every player, every time, had that champion’s mindset. There’s no excuse big enough to justify walking away from the match. Work the next day? Fatigue? Equipment not performing as it should? Those are the conditions champions thrive under. Those are the moments they’re remembered for.

The players who fight through the tough moments, who walk to the table knowing they might miss in front of an audience, are the ones who embrace the true spirit of the game. They don’t back down because it’s uncomfortable or because they’re afraid of what others might think. They lean into the pressure, understanding that the reward is greater than any fear.

So, Should You Split?

It’s a personal decision, and many players know what it’s like to go both ways. For some, there’s relief in sharing the win. But if there’s one thing we can agree on, it’s that the podium is reserved for one. That one player who braved the late night, fought through exhaustion, and wasn’t afraid to make mistakes under pressure—that’s the person who truly owns first place.

So, let’s play the match. That’s the mindset worth striving for. It’s not easy, and nobody’s perfect, but pushing ourselves to meet that challenge is where champions are born.

What do you think? Would you split or stand alone on the podium?

Well here's what we think.