In Episode 3 of Talkin’ English, host Del Sim sits down with Kennedy Meyman, known as the “Smooth Kriminal,” to discuss her journey in the world of professional billiards. Filmed at the iconic Amsterdam Billiards in New York City, the episode offers a glimpse into Kennedy’s passion for the game and her vision for the future.
Hailing from Minnesota, Kennedy's love for pool started at just 10 years old, and by the time she reached adulthood, she had already become a five-time National Junior Champion. Her success didn’t stop there; transitioning from the junior ranks to the WPBA Tour, Kennedy has been steadily climbing the professional ladder. Currently ranked 21st on the WPBA, she is pursuing a full-time career in billiards, making her mark on both the tables and the industry at large.
Kennedy credits the resurgence of pool as a mainstream sport to growing public interest and increased visibility thanks to platforms like Matchroom and the rise of live streaming. She also emphasizes the importance of social media and sponsorships in building a successful career, noting that these elements are crucial for players who want to make a living in the sport.
As a mentor to junior players, Kennedy highlights the importance of the Junior International Championship (JIC) in shaping her competitive mindset and preparing her for the professional circuit. She also shares advice for parents of junior players, encouraging them to be supportive yet composed, emphasizing the importance of letting their children navigate both the highs and lows of competitive pool.
One of the more unique moments of the interview comes when Kennedy explains how she earned her nickname, "Smooth Kriminal." During a tournament in Louisiana, an incident involving a disgruntled opponent and a misunderstanding with local authorities led to the nickname being coined. Despite the unusual situation, Kennedy handled it with grace, further proving her resilience on and off the table.
With a new league under her belt and ambitious professional goals ahead, Kennedy is poised for continued success. Whether she’s climbing the rankings, running her league, or balancing the challenges of life on tour, Kennedy Meyman is a name to watch in the billiards world.
Catch the full interview and more insights from Kennedy Meyman on Episode 3 of Talkin’ English. Don't miss out on her story and the exciting future of pool!
