ISLAMABAD – President Asif Ali Zardari on Friday congratulated Pakistan’s veteran snooker player Muhammad Asif for winning the IBSF World Masters Snooker Championship, calling his victory over Indian rival Brijesh Damani “a moment of national pride.”
In a statement issued by the President Secretariat Press Wing, Zardari said that Asif’s outstanding performance was a testament to the “talent, determination, and hard work of Pakistani athletes.” He praised Asif’s courage and professional excellence, noting that the win proved Pakistan’s sportsmen are fully capable of excelling on the global stage.
Muhammad Asif displayed nerves of steel as he edged past Brijesh Damani 4-3 in a thrilling final held at the Crowne Plaza Bahrain. His victory marks his sixth IBSF world title, having previously won three individual and two team championships.
“Asif’s triumph is a reflection of his unwavering dedication and the potential that lies within Pakistan’s youth,” the president said, adding that such victories uplift the national spirit and inspire future generations.
Earlier, Asif defeated India’s Manan Chandra 4-2 in the semi-final with an impressive comeback after dropping an early frame. The frame scores read 118-6, 0-84, 25-76, 92-11, 87-62, and 72-41.
Meanwhile, another young Pakistani cueist, Muhammad Hasnain, delivered a stunning 4-0 win over Wales’ Powel to clinch the IBSF U17 Snooker Championship, further showcasing the country’s rising talent in the sport.
Prominent leaders and sports fans across the country celebrated the dual victories. Senator Sherry Rehman also praised the achievement, stating, “Congratulations to Muhammad Asif on winning the IBSF World Masters Snooker Championship! He has made the nation proud, especially with a memorable win against India. Another proud moment for Pakistan!”
With back-to-back wins on the international stage, Pakistan’s snooker stars are reaffirming the country’s growing presence in global cue sports, and drawing attention to the need for greater investment and support in non-cricket disciplines.
