Sourav Kothari Defends IBSF World Billiards Title, Calls for Cue Sports at 2030 Commonwealth Games

Summary – Sourav Kothari successfully retained his IBSF World Billiards title in Ireland and urged for cue sports’ inclusion in the 2030 Commonwealth Games.,

Article –

Sourav Kothari, an acclaimed cueist from Kolkata, successfully defended his International Billiards and Snooker Federation (IBSF) World Billiards Championship title in Carlow, Ireland, in late April 2026. This victory marked a significant achievement in his sporting career and lent fresh momentum to his call for cue sports to be included in the 2030 Commonwealth Games program.

What Happened?

The championship took place in Carlow, Ireland, from April 20 to April 28, 2026. Kothari’s performance throughout the tournament was characterized by skillful breaks and consistent strategy, culminating in a final match that showcased his mastery over the game. Competing against top-level international opponents, the Kolkata cueist secured the world title with a high score margin that reflected his dominance in the discipline.

Kothari’s victory was notably recognized not only for the win itself but for his advocacy of cue sports, which include billiards, snooker, and pool. During the post-final press conference, Kothari emphasized the importance of expanding cue sports’ presence on major international sporting stages.

Key Numbers

• Final match scoreline: 1500-1340, indicating a closely contested final.
• Highest break during the tournament: 136 points.
• Participation of elite athletes from over 30 countries.
• Kothari joins the select few athletes to successfully defend the IBSF World Billiards title.

Locker-Room Reactions

After the match, Kothari said, “This victory is special for me because it not only confirms my dedication to the sport but also supports my passion to see cue sports recognized widely. We need to push for cue sports to be included in the Commonwealth Games by 2030. It’s time for the sport to gain the international recognition it deserves.”

IBSF Secretary-General Martin Clarke also commented, “Cue sports have been growing steadily in popularity and standard. Sourav’s recent success and advocacy give us hope that the Commonwealth Games Federation could rightly consider cue sports as a valuable addition in 2030. We are engaging with relevant bodies to make this possible.”

Fans and fellow competitors applauded Kothari’s accomplishment and his call for greater inclusivity of cue sports in international multi-sport events.

Immediate Consequences

• Kothari solidifies his position as the world number one billiards player, crucial for future tournament seeding.
• His advocacy could accelerate discussions to include cue sports in the 2030 Commonwealth Games.
• Potential benefits include increased funding, training development, and greater youth participation worldwide.

What Comes Next?

Kothari and the IBSF plan to:

1. Lobby the Commonwealth Games Federation and other international bodies in the coming months.
2. Present discussions and proposals regarding cue sports’ debut at the 2030 Commonwealth Games during the next federation assembly in September 2026.
3. See Kothari participate in the Asian Billiards Championship in October 2026, aiming to maintain his top form and influence the sport’s growth.

Stay tuned to SPACE SPORTS for more worldwide sports insights.

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Bhavya

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