Pakistani cueist Mohammed Asif poses with IBSF World Snooker Championship trophy at Karachi Airport on November 10, 2024. — Reporter
KARACHI: Pakistani cueist Mohammad Asif, following his victory on the Worldwide Billiards and Snooker Federation (IBSF) World Snooker Championship in Qatar, has been left disheartened after receiving a quiet reception upon his return to the nation at Karachi Airport on Sunday.
Asif, who clinched his third world title by defeating an Iranian competitor within the remaining, has now set his sights on a fourth title to make his document much more formidable.Â
Though Pakistan Billiards and Snooker Affiliation (PBSA) officers have been current to welcome him, there have been no representatives from the federal or provincial authorities — an absence Asif described as “disheartening.”
Commenting on his win, Asif acknowledged early challenges within the event however mentioned that he discovered his stride because the matches progressed.Â
He credited the PBSA, significantly its chairman Alamgir Shaikh, for his or her unwavering help and encouragement, sharing that Shaikh had expressed a private want for him to win the title a 3rd time.
Asif mentioned that his recreation towards Qatari cueist Ahmed Saif was a difficult one however added that this victory in that recreation gave him the momentum wanted to safe the championship.Â
Asif urged the federal government to step up its recognition and help for world champions, advocating for improved incentives for prime gamers.Â
Along with his third title win fueling his confidence, Asif now goals for a fourth championship to cement a long-lasting legacy for Pakistan.
“I want to create a unique record for Pakistan that can stay for longer, and breaking that record becomes difficult for any other cueist,” he mentioned.
In response to a query about his interactions with Indian gamers, Asif described his relationship with them as “cordial”, stating that each Indian and Pakistani gamers are desirous to compete in one another’s nations.
