India’s leading cueist Pankaj Advani on Saturday claimed his 25th world title after outclassing compatriot Sourav Kothari 4-0 in the 150 up billiards final at the World Championships.
Advani manoeuvred his cue like a magician’s wand as he entertained the spectators who showed up in large numbers to witness history being made at the High-End Snooker Club venue in Kuala Lumpur.
The best-of-seven summit clash saw Advani compete fiercely to ensure he completed a billiards National-Asian-World golden trifecta in the same calendar year for a record fifth time.
Advani’s craftsmanship saw him make the tournament’s highest break of 153 in the third bringing himself one frame away from familiar glory.
An elated Advani said, “It’s a dream to defend a world title for five times in a row. Truly pleased with how I’ve played and won every billiards event I participated in this year. Feel honoured to bring to my country yet another gold medal at a world level.”
Advani’s last world title came over 12 months ago in Qatar where he won the IBSF 6-Red Snooker World Cup. With 25 world titles, Advani has extended his record-breaking success as India’s winner of the most gold medals in world championships across all sports.
