Sourav Kothari Triumphs at IBSF World Billiards Championship with Government Support

Government Funding Boosts Indian Billiards Stars

New Delhi, April 30: The Sports Authority of India (SAI) has provided financial support for athletes participating in the IBSF World Men’s Billiards Championship held in Ireland. This assistance has been extended to 2026 World Champion Sourav Kothari, renowned multiple-time champion Pankaj Advani, and their coach Ashok Shandilya.

The championship concluded on April 29, with the trio competing thanks to funding from the government under the Assistance to National Sports Federations (ANSFs) initiative, as stated in an official release.

SAI allocated around Rs 6.46 lakh to the Billiards and Snooker Federation of India (BSFI) to cover essential expenses such as travel, accommodation, and other costs associated with the competition.

On April 29, Sourav Kothari achieved a remarkable victory, successfully defending his title at the 2026 IBSF World Billiards Championship by defeating Pankaj Advani in an all-Indian final held in Carlow, Ireland.

Kothari's win was characterized by a stunning comeback and an impressive break of 485 in the final, showcasing his determination and resilience.

During a press conference on Thursday, Kothari opened up about his emotional challenges and personal loss, sharing how he managed to secure a national title just days after his father's passing.

“Honestly, I don’t believe I’ve been mentally tough. It’s a big question mark how I’ve managed to win,” Kothari reflected.

He recounted the moment he learned of his father’s death while in Kolkata, expressing his grief and isolation.

“I won a national title just seven days after my dad passed away. I was alone in my room in Calcutta, crying,” he shared.

Kothari credited the BSFI Secretary and his mother for encouraging him to continue competing despite his emotional struggles.

“I received a call from the BSFI Secretary reminding me that my father would have wanted me to play… My mom urged me to go and compete. I did, and I won the national title,” he stated.

“I don’t consider myself mentally tough. I feel numb to everything, and I believe I’ve been dealt an unfair hand in that regard. I continue because I know it’s what he wanted; seeing me play well was his greatest joy,” Kothari added.

Looking forward, he confirmed his participation in upcoming snooker events, including tournaments in India and preparations for the World Snooker Championship, which is expected to take place in Indore.

“There are many snooker events coming up in India… but I will be training hard for the World Snooker Championship,” he concluded.