DOHA: Pakistan’s renowned snooker player, Mohammad Asif, has clinched the coveted International Billiards and Snooker Federation (IBSF) World Snooker Championship 2024 title in Doha, Qatar, defeating Iran’s Ali Gharahgozlou in the final.
This triumph marks Asif’s third individual world title, solidifying his position as one of the sport’s greats.
The 42-year-old Pakistani ace entered the championship as a qualifier, receiving a wild card nomination through the Pakistan Billiards and Snooker Association (PBSA).
Undaunted, Asif showcased exceptional skill and determination, advancing through the qualification round and dominating both the main and knockout stages.
In the best-of-nine-frames final, Asif faced a formidable opponent in Iran’s Ali Gharahgozlou. Asif set the tone with a commanding 70-25 win in the opening frame.
Although Gharahgozlou leveled the contest in the second frame (94-7), Asif regained control, securing the third frame (62-8) and producing a flawless 106-clearance break in the fourth frame. This impressive century break, his sixth in the tournament, gave Asif a decisive 3-1 lead.
Asif continued to excel, winning the fifth frame (82-12) and extending his lead to 4-1. Despite Gharahgozlou’s brief resurgence, winning the sixth and seventh frames, Asif sealed victory with a commanding 93-point break in the eighth frame.
Mohammad Asif’s third individual world title equals India’s Pankaj Advani’s record. Including his two team titles, Asif now holds an impressive five world titles, cementing his status as Pakistan’s most decorated cueist.
Asif’s remarkable achievement serves as a testament to his dedication, skill, and perseverance, inspiring a new generation of Pakistani snooker players.
