MIKEE Romero produced what he termed as one of his “beautiful and courageous” shots as he helped power his team GlobalPort-Passion For Polo to a stunning 11-10 win over defending champion Flying Changes in the 2025 USPA Midwest Open on Monday, Aug. 10, at the Las Brisas Polo Club in Chicago, Illinois.
Facing the prospect of another painful defeat, Romero, ranked No. 24 in the world with 110 World Polo Tour points, rose to the occasion and delivered the game-changer with an incredible show of speed and bravery to cap the team’s remarkable come-from-behind win.
'One of my best shots ever'
“One of my best shots ever,” said the former lawmaker, who gained recognition after GlobalPort’s histotic debut at the 2025 Gauntlet of Polo, often referred to as the Olympics of polo.
Romero’s last-gasp goal – his second of the game – underscored the team’s mighty stand in the face of Flying Changes’ aggressive attack early on to stay on course for another great ride following an impressive quarterfinal finish in the prestigious US Polo Open Championship in Florida only last May.
More than showcasing the team’s resilience, the win was a sweet redemption for Romero and company – American Colo Gonzalez, Argentinian Nino Obregon, and Fil-Am Anthony Garcia — after absorbing a stinging 13-14 defeat to CD Peacock in the opener.
On a break from his socio-civic work being the chairman of the Association of Reservists and Reservist Administrators of the Philippines, Inc. (ARRAPI) with a rank of lieutenant colonel, Romero attributed the team’s victory to the team’s own version of never-say-die spirit.
“It’s our chemistry and big fighting heart that carried us through,” added Romero, who is the highest-ranked Southeast Asian player on the global circuit.
Gonzales and Obregón were a joy to watch as they controlled the midfield battles before Romero made his great play.
Next for Romero and company is a vital duel with host team Las Brisas on Aug. 14 before colliding with Beaver Creek on August 16.
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