In a gripping showdown at the Snooker and Billiards Ireland (SBI) Academy, Sourav Kothari captured his maiden IBSF World Billiards Championship (Timed Format) title in a final that will be remembered for years. The 2025 championship concluded with a high-octane, all-Indian clash, pitting Kothari against the legendary Pankaj Advani in a match that showcased the finest elements of the sport — finesse, resilience, and world-class shot-making.
Played on Table 7 and officiated by Australian referee Shuangyu Jia, the final was a treat for billiards fans worldwide. Kothari produced a commanding performance, finishing with a score of 725 against Advani’s 480. The highlight of his display was a scintillating break of 325 — one of the best in recent tournament memory. He also added impressive breaks of 119 and 112, demonstrating remarkable composure and precision under pressure. Kothari had already signalled his form earlier in the group stages, registering a massive break of 490, which earned him a special accolade for the tournament’s highest break.
This landmark victory represents Kothari’s first world title in the timed format, adding a new chapter to his illustrious family legacy. As the son of 1990 world champion Manoj Kothari, Sourav’s triumph is both a personal milestone and a continuation of a proud tradition in Indian cue sports. With this win, he solidifies his position as one of the top players on the international billiards stage.
Facing him was none other than Pankaj Advani, a multiple-time world champion and one of the most respected figures in the cue sports world. Advani was in fine touch throughout the match, posting breaks of 129, 116, and 112. Though he ended as the runner-up, his graceful and skillful play brought immense stature to the final and reminded everyone of his enduring class and competitive spirit.
The bronze medals were awarded jointly to India’s Dhruv Sitwala and England’s David Causier. Sitwala continued to impress with his consistent performances, while Causier’s run to the semi-finals reinforced his reputation as one of the sport’s premier talents on the international circuit.
India’s dominance was clearly reflected in the tournament’s final results, with three of the four medalists representing the country. Kothari’s victory, Advani’s silver, and Sitwala’s bronze all pointed to the incredible depth of Indian talent in billiards. Meanwhile, Causier’s podium finish ensured a strong international flavour and highlighted the global competitiveness of the event.
The 2025 edition of the IBSF World Billiards Championship closed on a high note in Carlow, Ireland, offering fans an unforgettable finale and a glimpse into a bright future for cue sports. As interest in both the timed and points formats continues to grow, players like Kothari, Advani, Sitwala, and Causier are keeping the excitement alive and the legacy of world billiards thriving.