Pakistan’s veteran snooker player Muhammad Asif won the 50th National Snooker Championship after defeating Punjab’s Rana Irfan in the final at the National Bank Sports Complex.
The final, played over 11 frames, was a closely contested match. Irfan produced two century breaks, including a tournament-high 141 in the seventh frame. Despite this strong performance, Asif’s experience proved decisive as he went on to secure the title.
Asif recorded eight century breaks during the tournament and sealed his victory, marking his fifth national title. The win further strengthened his reputation as one of Pakistan’s most accomplished snooker players.
At the closing ceremony, National Bank of Pakistan President Rehmat Hasni, along with Pakistan Billiards and Snooker Association Presidents Abdul Qadir Memon and Alamgir Sheikh, distributed prize money totaling Rs1.6 million among the participants.
Despite his success, Asif expressed disappointment over the lack of recognition and revealed that he has yet to receive the full prize money announced. Speaking to the media after the tournament, he said it was discouraging when athletes are not properly acknowledged for their achievements.
“When a player wins a title in any sport, their performance should be appreciated,” Asif said. “If players are not motivated, then this is a moment of reflection.”
He added that athletes should be properly supported and kept satisfied so they can continue performing at their best.
