Bingo! This is probably the voice of reason on this thread.
My opinion from afar is that Thorsten Hohmann is more of a tournament soldier, someone who enjoys the art of shooting pool competitively without all the craziness the Mosconi Cup is known for. And I say “craziness” fondly. I like it!
When the first Skins Billiards Championship came on the scene, promoted by Allen Hopkins and Matt Braun, Thorsten was the new kid on the American pool scene. I remember him sitting alone, not really socializing with anyone. I took the opportunity to speak with him because I was curious about this German phenom Allen thought was worthy of inclusion.
I asked him what he thought about the opportunities for playing pool in the United States. At the time, I believe he was still living in Germany, although that’s subject to check. He told me there were more opportunities to make a living as a pool player in the United States than elsewhere. Of course, that was then, and this is now.
I respect his decision because he’s doing what suits him best, and there’s absolutely nothing wrong with that. My guess is that Thorsten simply doesn’t care for the Mosconi Cup’s circus-like atmosphere. Not every player has to embrace the showmanship, the noise, and the hype to appreciate competitive pool.
There’s an old expression about not putting whipped cream on a hot dog when it comes to pool players at tournament venues. Some players thrive on the show. Others just want to play the game. Thorsten isn't a hotdog.
