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Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has awarded snooker champion Muhammad Asif with a reward of 2.5 million rupees for his remarkable achievements in the world of snooker, bringing pride to Pakistan on the global stage.
In a statement from the Prime Minister’s House, it was announced that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif met with Muhammad Asif, who recently triumphed at the South Asian (SAARC) Snooker Championship in Sri Lanka. During the meeting, the Prime Minister congratulated Asif on his victory and presented him with a cheque of 2.5 million rupees.
“Pakistani youth athletes are making the country proud with their talents worldwide. You have brought honor to Pakistan in the world of snooker, and the entire nation is proud of you,” the Prime Minister said. He also commended Asif’s impressive achievements, including his three-time World Amateur Snooker Championship victories and three-time SAARC Snooker Championship title, highlighting the global recognition he has earned for Pakistan.
“Asif’s achievements have made their mark internationally, and the government is committed to providing all necessary facilities for Pakistani athletes,” the Prime Minister added.
In response, Muhammad Asif thanked the Prime Minister for his recognition, emphasizing the vital role of government support in promoting sports. “Government patronage plays a crucial role in the development of sports, and it is an honor for me that the Prime Minister has acknowledged my achievements,” he said.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also directed relevant authorities to work with Muhammad Asif on initiatives to further develop snooker training programs in Pakistan, aiming to encourage more youth to take up the sport.
Muhammad Asif’s legendary career continued with his victory in the 2025 SAARC Snooker Championship, where he displayed unbeatable form in the final, defeating Taha 5-0. The match, held at Morris Snooker Club in Colombo, saw Asif dominate with scores of 3-99, 46-73, 46-85, 38-109, 6-109, and 0-74, showcasing his exceptional skill and determination.
This victory marks Asif’s third SAARC Snooker Championship title and the eighth major title of his illustrious career. A three-time World Snooker Champion (2012, 2019, and 2024), Asif continues to solidify his legacy as one of Pakistan’s finest snooker players.
In a video message after his victory, Asif attributed his success to his hard work, as well as the prayers of his parents and the nation. “This is success that comes from devotion and the prayers of the people,” he shared.
Both Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and President Asif Ali Zardari praised Muhammad Asif for his tremendous achievement, noting the dedication he has shown in bringing honor to the country. “Muhammad Asif once again brings Pakistan’s name to the international snooker stage; the entire nation takes immense pride in him,” the Prime Minister said.
This victory also highlights the rich legacy of Pakistani snooker champions. Muhammad Asif is only the second Pakistani to win the SAARC Snooker Championship, following Asjad Iqbal’s triumph in the inaugural event in 2019. Asif’s success continues to inspire future generations and further elevates Pakistan’s standing in the sport.
