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President congratulates Advani on winning World Billiards Championship

October 31, 2014 15:34 IST

‘Delighted to know that you have achieved your 12th World Title in Leeds, and become the first player to win the grand double thrice’

Karnataka Chief Minister was one of the first few to wish

Fans still awaiting congratulatory message from Prime Minister Narendra Modi

Pankaj Advani

India's most celebrated cueist Pankaj Advani. Photograph: Pankaj Advani/Facebook

President Pranab Mukherjee congratulated India's most celebrated cueist Pankaj Advani on clinching the World Billiards Championship (time format) in Leeds and bagging record 12 world titles.

Pankaj Advani scores grand double at World Billiards Championship

Advani says hard work, brother's tips paid off in 'special' win

In his message, Mukherjee said: "I am extremely delighted to know that you have achieved your 12th World Title in Leeds, and become the first player to win the grand double thrice...Please accept my hearty congratulations and best wishes," said Mukherjee in his message.

"India is proud of your achievement, which has ensured that our flag flies high in the international arena. I wish you continued success in all your future endeavours," he added.

Pankaj Advani

Pankaj Advaniwalked the ramp as showstopper for one of India's top designer Manoviraj Khosla. Photograph: Pankaj Advani/Facebook

Bangalore's 'Golden Boy' Advani humbled rising England cueist Robert Hall in a five-hour final 1928-893 to pocket his third grand double post his 150-up short format win last week. He surpassed Mike Russell, who has two grand doubles to his credit.

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah was one of the first few to wish the numero uno state hero via twitter but fans were still awaiting a congratulatory message from Prime Minister Narendra Modi.