Germany’s Ina Kaplan is no stranger to the world of professional pool. An experienced player with multiple national titles under her belt, Kaplan has earned a spot in the spotlight as one of the athletes featured in the International World Games Association's (IWGA) "Chosen4Chengdu" campaign which aims at introducing qualified athletes to The World Games 2025 Chengdu.
As she looks ahead to the Games in China, her goal is clear: to win a medal at this prestigious event.
A late start, but a rapid rise
Kaplan’s journey into the world of billiards began when she was just 16—a relatively late start compared to many professional players. Her first introduction to the sport came through her father, a hobby player.
“He showed me how to play,” she recalls, “but he was never a club member.”
While many top athletes in her field started in childhood, Kaplan’s path was unique. She joined a local club and perfected her skills by playing solo for hours after school, picking up tips from more experienced players.
“I developed my skills on my own just by listening, watching, and copying stuff from the other players,” Kaplan explains. “Some of them showed me how to train properly.”
A turning point in her career came when she discovered PAT (Playing Ability Test) training, which helped her improve her precision and consistency. Soon after, Kaplan clinched her first two German Championship titles in different disciplines, solidifying her place among Germany’s best players.
Though Kaplan has tried other forms of billiards, pool has always been her first love. “Pool was an easy choice for me,” she laughs.
Kaplan has achieved significant success on the national and European stage, but her ambitions stretch even further.
“I would love to win a medal at The World Games or a World Championship,” she says.
For Kaplan, the unique pressure of The World Games makes it a particularly special goal. “The World Games are another tournament because they only take place every four years, and only 12 players are involved. The pressure is new for everyone.”
Kaplan’s strategy for success is clear: consistent competition at the highest level. Though family commitments have kept her from participating in many international tournaments recently, Kaplan plans to increase her overseas appearances as her children grow older.
“You can only handle the pressure when you’re used to it,” she notes.
She believes that regularly competing in international events will prepare her for the pressure of a world-class stage like The World Games.
Inspiring the next generation of players
Kaplan is passionate about giving back to the sport, particularly when it comes to promoting women’s pool in Germany. She has taken an active role in organising events, such as the CONZE Cup, a women’s tournament held in her hometown shopping mall, where the top female players in Germany showcase their skills to a broad audience.
“It’s important to show a big crowd how women play good pool and that it’s fun and entertaining,” Kaplan says.
In addition to her efforts at the elite level, Kaplan is also focused on fostering the next generation of players. She trains children, including her own, at her local club in a group known as the “Billiard Kids Club.” Watching these young players grow and improve brings her great joy and keeps her connected to the grassroots of the sport.
Above all, Kaplan is determined to inspire other women, particularly mothers, to pursue their passion for pool. “When I grew up, so many women stopped playing when they became mothers,” she recalls.
“Nowadays, it has changed. There are more and more women with kids on the Eurotour, and I’m really glad this is happening.”
Focus on Chengdu
As Kaplan prepares for The World Games in Chengdu, her training will take on a big focus. “I will plan a training programme with the national coach to work on my technique, tactics, and especially the break,” she shares. Kaplan believes that mastering the break shot—a crucial element in 10-ball pool—will give her an edge over her opponents in Chengdu.
With a carefully personalised training plan and a deep passion for the sport, Kaplan is determined to seize the opportunity at The World Games 2025. Her journey, from a late start in pool to becoming a national champion, is a testament to her dedication and resilience. Now, she has her sights set on winning a medal on one of the world’s biggest stages.
The International World Games Association (IWGA) is a non-profit-making international sports organisation recognised and supported by the International Olympic Committee. The IWGA comprises 40 International Member Sports Federations. It administers and promotes The World Games (TWG), a multi-sport event held every four years that features around 35 sports on its programme. The next edition of TWG will be in Chengdu (CHN) from 7-17 August 2025. 5,000 participants from more than 100 countries are expected to take part in this 12th edition. The latest Games were hosted by Birmingham, Alabama (USA).
For more information, please contact the IWGA Media and Communication team: [email protected], Tel: +41 21 311 12 97, or visit our website.
