TLDR:
• Mohammad Asif claims third world title
• Defeats Iran’s Ali Gharahgozlou 5-3
• Extends Pakistan’s snooker legacy
DOHA (The Thursday Times) — Pakistani cueist Mohammad Asif made history with a triumphant third victory at the IBSF World Snooker Championship, edging past Iran’s Ali Gharahgozlou in a thrilling 5-3 final on Wednesday. Asif’s win not only equalled India’s Pankaj Advani’s record but also solidified his position as Pakistan’s most successful snooker player. The match, a best-of-nine frame contest, saw Asif secure his place among the sport’s elite with a determined display of skill and resilience.
A journey from wild card to champion
Asif entered the championship through a wild card, granted by the Pakistan Billiards and Snooker Association (PBSA), and quickly turned the opportunity into a record-setting achievement. His path to victory began with an assertive opening frame, which he claimed with a break of 40, setting the tone for the match. After a brief challenge by Gharahgozlou, who responded with a break of 84 to win the second frame, Asif regained control in the third, with a calculated 56-break that put him back in the lead.
Throughout the remaining frames, Asif displayed his veteran mastery, securing key moments with precision and skill. In the fourth frame, he delivered a stunning century break (106), one of six he achieved in the tournament, establishing a 3-1 lead. He extended his advantage in the fifth frame, demonstrating his control over the game with a decisive 82-12 victory. Although Gharahgozlou fought back to take the sixth and seventh frames, Asif’s experience and composure proved decisive in the final moments.
A historic closing frame
The eighth frame saw Asif approach the table with purpose, building a commanding 93-break with a series of deft shots. His calculated potting, featuring a sequence of blues and blacks, underscored his technical prowess and strategic acumen. Despite a minor foul on the yellow, his lead remained unassailable, and he secured the championship with a triumphant wave to his supporters, his legacy in snooker firmly cemented.
In his post-match reflections, Asif acknowledged the challenges he faced en route to the final, including a tough group stage where he initially struggled to qualify. However, he overcame these setbacks with resilience, defeating compatriot Asjad Iqbal to advance and ultimately defeating top contenders like Ali Alobaidli and Ahmed Saif. His victory against Cyprus’ Michel Geogriou in the semi-final further underscored his tenacity, setting the stage for his historic win.
A milestone for Pakistan
As Pakistan’s most decorated snooker player, Asif’s achievement brought pride to the nation. His success at the IBSF World Snooker Championship not only elevated Pakistan’s reputation in international snooker but also inspired future generations of athletes. In a video message, Asif expressed gratitude to his family, friends, and PBSA, acknowledging their support throughout his journey.
This triumph also marked a broader victory for Pakistani sports, highlighting the country’s potential in global competitions. Asif’s career, characterised by dedication and resilience, stands as a testament to Pakistan’s spirit in sports, especially in disciplines often overshadowed by more popular games.
A landmark for snooker
The tournament also awarded joint bronze medals to Mahmoud El Hareedy of Egypt and Michel Geogriou. El Hareedy’s achievement as Africa’s first medallist underscored the growing global reach of snooker, while Geogriou claimed the highest break prize with a remarkable 136-point break. These accomplishments, coupled with Asif’s historic win, reflect snooker’s expanding influence and the calibre of talent emerging from diverse regions.
