In the final of the Asian Snooker Championship held in Riyadh, China’s Tang Ching Haohui defeated India’s Pankaj Advani to secure the title. Haohui displayed a dominant and aggressive style of play that unsettled the experienced Indian cueist, resulting in a comprehensive win.
Pankaj Advani, a three-time Asian snooker champion, entered the final as one of the favourites but was unable to match the pace and precision of his Chinese opponent. Haohui’s attacking approach produced high breaks and consistent scoring, effectively keeping Advani under pressure for most of the match.
Advani’s Safety Game Disrupted
Known for his tactical depth and strong safety play, Advani struggled to find rhythm against Haohui’s consistent potting and table control. The Indian player’s normally reliable safety game faltered as Haohui maintained pressure with offensive shot-making. This forced Advani into difficult positions on multiple occasions, limiting his opportunities to build momentum or string together significant breaks.
Despite flashes of resistance, Advani was unable to capitalise on the few chances he got. Haohui remained steady and ensured that errors from the Indian ace were quickly converted into scoring visits, widening the score margin and tilting the match steadily in the Chinese player’s favour.
Haohui Secures First Major Asian Title
The victory marks a significant milestone in Haohui’s career, as he lifted his first major continental title. He maintained composure throughout the championship and reserved his best performance for the final. His quick decision-making and sharp positional play were key factors in overcoming a seasoned player like Advani.
With this win, Haohui joins the list of rising snooker stars from China making a mark on the international stage. His performance in Riyadh highlighted not only his technical prowess but also his ability to stay calm and focused in high-pressure scenarios.
Advani’s Consistent Run Ends in Final
Although the final did not go in his favour, Advani’s run in the championship was marked by steady performances. The 25-time international title winner showcased his experience during the earlier rounds, defeating several strong opponents to book a place in the final. However, the title match proved to be a difficult hurdle as Haohui maintained control from the outset.
This was Advani’s sixth appearance in an Asian Snooker Championship final. Known for his versatility across cue sports, he remains one of India’s most decorated and consistent performers.
Growing Competition in Asian Snooker
The championship witnessed high-quality matches across multiple rounds, underlining the growing competitive nature of the sport in Asia. Players from countries like China, Iran, Pakistan, and India demonstrated strong form, indicating a rising standard across the continent.
Haohui’s success adds to China’s expanding presence in international snooker, while Advani’s continued competitiveness confirms India’s enduring legacy in the sport. The championship concluded with players earning valuable ranking points and gaining crucial experience ahead of upcoming global events.

