NEW DELHI: Indian cueist Pankaj Advani secured his 28th world title at the IBSF World Billiards Championship in Doha, Qatar, on Saturday.
This victory marks his seventh consecutive world championship win, solidifying his position as a dominant force in the sport.
Advani faced a strong challenge from England’s Robert Hall in the final. Hall took the initial lead, claiming the first frame.
However, Advani quickly regained control, reaching the 150-point mark first in the second frame and following it up with a remarkable unfinished break of 147 points.
The third frame witnessed a display of tactical acumen from both finalists. Advani emerged victorious from this strategic battle, moving within one frame of clinching the title.
Hall, however, refused to concede defeat easily.
He delivered a flawless 151 break in the fourth frame, keeping his championship hopes alive. He continued his strong performance in the fifth frame with another impressive break of 154 points, levelling the score and intensifying the pressure on Advani.
The sixth frame proved decisive. Advani, displaying his championship mettle, constructed a crucial century break. After a series of calculated safety exchanges, the Indian maestro secured the final points needed for victory.
“It feels amazing to be on a winning streak of world billiards titles. It wasn’t easy though. The competition was tough,” said Advani after the win. “When I was not in full flow, it was my brother Shree, a sports psychologist, who came to the rescue. He helped me stay in the present and kept the scoreboard ticking. This win is for my country and family.”
