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Sourav Kothari Retains IBSF World Billiards Title, Defeats Pankaj Advani

Sourav Kothari defeated Pankaj Advani in an all-Indian final to retain the 2026 IBSF World Billiards Championship in Carlow, Ireland. Kothari produced a remarkable 485 break in the final, showcasing his heart, resilience, and unwavering belief. Union Minister Mansukh Mandaviya congratulated Kothari, calling his victory a masterclass in focus and determination. Union Minister Raksha Khadse also praised Kothari's composure in securing his third world title.

Key Points: Sourav Kothari Beats Pankaj Advani to Retain World Title

  • Sourav Kothari defeats Pankaj Advani in all-Indian final
  • Kothari retains IBSF World Billiards Championship
  • Produced a mesmerising 485 break in the final
  • Union Ministers congratulate Kothari on his victory
2 min read

Sourav Kothari defeats Pankaj Advani to retain IBSF World Billiards Championship

Sourav Kothari defeats Pankaj Advani in an all-Indian final to retain the 2026 IBSF World Billiards Championship in Carlow, Ireland.

"A masterclass in focus and determination! Heartiest congratulations to Sourav Kothari on clinching the 2026 IBSF World Billiards Championship. - Mansukh Mandaviya"

Carlow, April 29

Sourav Kothari triumphed in spectacular fashion to retain the 2026 IBSF World Billiards Championship, defeating Pankaj Advani in a dominant all-Indian final on Wednesday in Carlow, Ireland.

From battling back from significant deficits to producing a mesmerising 485 break in the final, this victory was a testament to his heart, resilience, and unwavering belief.

Union Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports, Mansukh Mandaviya, congratulated Kothari for his exceptional performance in winning the 2026 IBSF World Billiards Championship.

Praising Kothari's focus and determination, Mandaviya highlighted the significance of his victory in securing another world title, which brings immense pride and joy to the nation.

"A masterclass in focus and determination! Heartiest congratulations to Sourav Kothari on clinching the 2026 IBSF World Billiards Championship. Winning yet another world title is a remarkable achievement that fills the entire nation with pride and joy," Mandaviya wrote in an X post.

Union Minister of State for Youth Affairs and Sports, Raksha Khadse, also congratulated Kothari on his victory. Khadse praised Kothari's composure and resilience, highlighting his remarkable fightback throughout the tournament to secure his third world title, a feat that made the nation proud.

"Congratulations to Sourav Kothari on winning the 2026 IBSF World Billiards Championship in Carlow, Ireland, defeating Pankaj Advani in a commanding final. A remarkable display of composure, as he fought back from difficult positions throughout the tournament to secure his third world title, making the nation proud," Khadse wrote in an X post.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

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Sarah B
Great to see an all-Indian final in a world championship! 🇮🇳 The dominance of Indian cue sports continues. That 485 break is professional-level brilliance. Hope the government invests more in non-cricket sports, though the ministers' tweets are a good start.
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Sneha F
Watched the highlights - Kothari's fightback from deficits was reminiscent of his 2024 title run. Pankaj Advani is a giant in the sport, so beating him in a final is no small feat. Kudos to both players for showcasing Indian excellence! The sports ministry should do more than just tweets, maybe some cash rewards for world champions?
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David E
Incredible achievement! 485 break in the final is almost unheard of in billiards. India's dominance in cue sports is something to celebrate. The minister's messages are nice but actual support like training facilities would be better. Still, hats off to Kothari for retaining the title! 🎱
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Deepak U
Reserving a bit of criticism here - while Kothari's achievement is fantastic, our sports ministry's pattern of only sending congratulatory tweets and doing little else is frustrating. Compare this to how cricket achievements are celebrated. That said, what a player! Third world title at this level is phenomenal. Jai Hind! 🇮🇳
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Matthew K
Brilliant performance from Kothari! A 485 break in a world championship final is world-class. Advani is a legend but credit to the new champion. Indian billiards is in a great place right now. Would love to see more coverage of these events in Indian

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