The Prime Minister of Pakistan Shehbaz Sharif has extended his heartfelt congratulations to Mohammad Asif for winning the International Billiards and Snooker Federation (IBSF) World Snooker Championship 2024.
Asif clinched his third IBSF World Snooker Championship 2024 title by defeating Iran’s Ali Gharahgozlou with a score of 5-3 in Doha, Qatar.
Asif has previously won the coveted championship in 2012 and 2019. Moreover, he has also clinched two team titles, which makes him the most decorated cueist in the history of Pakistan with five world titles.
For the unversed, the 42-year-old player made his entrance into the tournament as a qualifier, having received a nomination from the Pakistan Billiards and Snooker Association (PBSA) to participate as a wild card entrant.
However, he seized the opportunity with remarkable determination, delivering breathtaking performances which earned him qualification for the final against Gharahgozlou.
His extraordinary accomplishment garnered accolades from Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, who commended Asif for his exceptional efforts that brought honour and pride to the nation.
“Mohammad Asif has made the nation proud by clinching the World Snooker Championship title for the third time,” the prime minister said, according to a PM Office statement. “Asif’s family members and coach also deserve felicitation.”
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Additionally, Shehbaz Sharif emphasized that the government is committed to prioritizing the establishment of top-notch facilities for sportsmen, ensuring they have the resources needed to excel and compete effectively on the global stage.
During the final against Gharahgozlou, Asif dominated the opening frame with a commanding score of 70-25 with an impressive display of skill. However, Gharahgozlou quickly found his rhythm in the second frame, levelling the contest with a resounding victory of 87-7.
Undeterred, Asif regained his momentum in the third frame, showcasing his talent by winning decisively at 82-8.
The Pakistani cueist then delivered a breathtaking performance in the fourth frame, executing a flawless 106 clearance break, which was his sixth-century break of the tournament.
Asif continued to exhibit his prowess in the fifth frame, further solidifying his advantage with a convincing 82-12 win, bringing his lead to a solid 4-1.
Although Gharahgozlou fought back valiantly, claiming victories in both the sixth and seventh frames, Asif proved too strong. He sealed his victory in the eighth frame with a stellar performance, executing a remarkable 93-point break.
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