Pankaj Advani Stuns with National Pool Double Crown in Debut at 40
In a stunning display of versatility and skill, cue sports icon Pankaj Advani has once again defied expectations by clinching both the 9-ball and 10-ball titles at his maiden national pool championship in Ludhiana. At 40 years old, the Bengaluru-based champion, already a holder of 28 world titles in billiards and snooker, ventured into the unfamiliar territory of competitive pool and emerged victorious, marking a historic debut that has captivated the sports world.
A Late-Career Breakthrough
This breakthrough arrives at a stage when many athletes might be winding down their careers, yet Advani continues to push boundaries with unwavering determination. His triumph is not merely another accolade in an already illustrious career but a powerful testament to his rare ability to evolve and excel across different disciplines within cue sports. Advani himself, a self-confessed novice in pool with only two matches under his belt prior to the nationals, ranks this achievement among his finest.
"At the national level, this is right up there—one of my best achievements in cue sports. I’ve never played competitive pool," Advani revealed in an interview, highlighting the significance of this unexpected success. He explained that his delayed entry into pool was strategic, as he previously feared it might hinder his progress in billiards and snooker, given the distinct nature of the sport.
Overcoming Challenges and Setbacks
The transition to pool is far from straightforward, involving significant differences in ball size, pocket dimensions, and shot angles compared to billiards and snooker. "To do it in my first attempt, and then win a double, not just one, I could never imagine in my wildest dreams that this would happen," Advani admitted, underscoring the improbability of his feat. Compounding the challenge, he arrived in Punjab with no specific preparation, only getting a feel for the table upon arrival, and was fresh off a rare early exit from a national snooker event.
This setback, however, fueled his resolve. "When a sportsperson gets beaten, you always want to come back stronger," he said, noting that the disappointment provided him with added intent and determination heading into the pool competition. Remarkably, the absence of pressure played a key role in his success, as he entered the championship as an underdog among seasoned pool specialists, free from the weight of expectations that typically accompany his performances.
Future Prospects and Legacy
Looking ahead, Advani's packed schedule raises questions about whether this success will lead to a deeper engagement with pool. "I don’t think I’ll be able to play every pool event, but I would love to play a couple of the big ones," he stated, leaving the door open for future participation. This unexpected detour has undeniably added a fresh dimension to his career, bringing him closer to the rare distinction of being a true all-rounder in cue sports, akin to seasoned professionals like Alok Kumar.
Advani's achievement serves as an inspiration, demonstrating that age and inexperience are no barriers to success when coupled with talent and perseverance. It reinforces his status as a living legend in the world of cue sports, continually redefining what is possible and setting new benchmarks for excellence.
