Nine ball billiard game 9-Ball is a rotation game where only the 1 through 9 balls and cue ball are used. The player at the table must make a legal shot on the lowest numbered ball on the table or a foul is called. The game is won by legally pocketing the nine ball (which can be done by striking the lowest numbered ball first and then driving the 9 into a pocket). 9-Ball is the predominant professional game. There are many local and regional tours and tournaments that are contested with 9-Ball. There is no particular governing body of 9-ball. Most places play with a version of "Texas Express" or WPA (World Pool Association) rules. The largest 9-ball tournaments are the independent US Open and the World 9-Ball Championships for men and women. Male professionals have a rather fragmented schedule of professional 9-Ball tournaments at this time (2005). Female professionals have a steady professional circuit that is governed by the Women's Professional Billiard Association.
