Billiards originated in the 15th century in France, with the word deriving from either the French word for stick or ball. The game evolved from using a club-like mace to the standard cue stick in the 1600s. Michael Phelan, an Irish immigrant, helped popularize billiards in America in the 1800s by developing innovations like diamonds on tables and new cushion designs.

3. Originated during the 15th Century
The word “billiards” is French, deriving either from “billart”, meaning
stick, or “billie”, meaning ball.

5. Tool used in early billiards was a club-like stick called a mace
In 1600’s, cue stick evolved from the mace and became the
standard

9. Popularized by Irish Immigrant Michael Phelan
Contributions:
› Added diamonds to assist aiming
› Developed new table and cushion designs
› First American Billiard columnist

11. In Dubai Airport
128 players
2012