Austrian female cue master Jasmin Ouschan defended her decision to see action in the inaugural World Ten-Ball Championships in Manila that resulted in the two-tournament suspension slapped by the Women´s Professional Billiard Association on her.

"Of course I am surprised about the decision and disappointed but I also have to understand the WPBA who wants to protect their tour. But I made my decision in time and announced it according to their rules," Ouschan said in her statement posted on AZBilliards.com.

Ouschan, who lost 9-8 to Filipino master Demosthenes Pulpul in the round of 64 , added that she thinks she made the right decision in joining the week-long event in Manila that ended on October 5.

"I think it was the right decision since a World Championship is one of the highest event in sport," she added.

The Austrian's suspension stemmed from her choice of WTBC over a WPBA event in Oregon that also fell on the same date.

"That these two events were conflicting is not my fault but now I am the one who has to pay for it," she said.

According to AZBilliards.com, the WPBA decision on Ouschan's case is not yet final since she is allowed to appeal.

The final decision will be issued within 30 days.

Ouschan's notable awards this year include a 3rd place finish at the 2008 Amway World Women’s Championship; 3rd Place, 2008 Generationpool. com Open Ladies Championship; and 2nd Place, 2008 Ladies Spirit Tour Stop.