Pankaj Advani Biography: Life Story, Career, Family, Records & Achievements
Introduction
Pankaj Advani is India’s greatest cue sports player, excelling in both billiards and snooker. With 25 world titles, he is among the most decorated players in cue sports history. Known as the “Prince of Indian Billiards”, Advani has dominated the global stage for over two decades and continues to inspire aspiring players worldwide.
Personal Information
Full Name & Birth Details
- Full Name: Pankaj Arjan Advani
- Date of Birth: 24 July 1985
- Birthplace: Pune, Maharashtra, India
Nationality & Zodiac Sign
- Nationality: Indian
- Zodiac Sign: Leo
Physical Appearance
- Height: 5 feet 8 inches (173 cm)
- Weight: Approx. 65 kg
- Build: Slim & Fit
Known for his calm focus and sharp reflexes, his physical and mental discipline are the cornerstones of his success.
Early Life & Family Background
Childhood & Parents
Pankaj was born in Pune but raised in Bangalore. His father, Arjan Advani, was a businessman, and his mother, Kajal Advani, played a supportive role in his sporting journey.
Early Interest in Cue Sports
At the age of 10, Pankaj picked up cue sports, showing remarkable natural ability. His brother, Shree Advani, also encouraged his interest in sports.
Education Journey
He studied at Frank Anthony Public School, Bangalore, and later graduated from Sri Bhagawan Mahaveer Jain College, Bangalore. Alongside academics, he devoted himself fully to cue sports.
Introduction to Billiards & Snooker
First Steps into Cue Sports
Pankaj began playing at local clubs and was spotted by Arvind Savur, who became his first coach and mentor.
Early Training & Mentors
Under Savur’s guidance, Pankaj honed his technique and tactical game, which paved the way for his rapid rise in the sport.
Rise in Professional Cue Sports
At just 18 years old, Pankaj won the 2003 IBSF World Snooker Championship, marking his arrival on the global stage. Since then, he has consistently dominated international billiards and snooker tournaments.
National Career Highlights
- Multiple-time National Billiards and Snooker Champion.
- Consistently represented Karnataka in national tournaments, winning several domestic titles.
International Career Highlights
World Billiards Championships
- Won 17 World Billiards titles, including both time format and point format events.
World Snooker Titles
- Won 3 IBSF World Snooker Championships.
- First player to achieve a Grand Double (winning both formats of billiards in the same year) multiple times.
Asian Games & Other Tournaments
- Won gold medal at the 2006 Asian Games (Doha) in cue sports.
- Multiple medals in Asian Championships and World Cups.
Records & Milestones
- 25-time World Champion across billiards and snooker.
- First player to complete the Grand Double on several occasions.
- Only player in history to win world titles in both billiards and snooker formats.
- Known as India’s most successful cue sports athlete.
Awards & Honors
- Arjuna Award (2004).
- Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna Award (2006).
- Padma Shri (2009).
- Padma Bhushan (2018).
Beyond Cue Sports
Pankaj Advani actively promotes cue sports in India. He has been involved in mentoring young players, giving motivational talks, and supporting grassroots development.
Personal Life
Pankaj prefers to keep his personal life private. He is admired for his humility, discipline, and dedication to the sport.
Legacy & Inspiration
Pankaj Advani’s career is a blueprint for excellence. His unmatched success has put Indian cue sports on the world map. He continues to inspire young athletes to take up niche sports and prove that passion and dedication can lead to greatness.
FAQs about Pankaj Advani
Q1: When was Pankaj Advani born?
A: 24 July 1985, in Pune, Maharashtra, India.
Q2: How many world titles has Pankaj Advani won?
A: He has won 25 world titles in billiards and snooker.
Q3: What awards has Pankaj Advani received?
A: Arjuna Award, Khel Ratna, Padma Shri, and Padma Bhushan.
Q4: Is Pankaj Advani the only player to win both billiards and snooker world titles?
A: Yes, he is the only player to achieve world championships in both formats.
Q5: Who was Pankaj Advani’s first coach?
A: Arvind Savur, who played a key role in his early development.
Q6: What is Pankaj Advani’s nickname?
A: He is often called the “Prince of Indian Billiards”.
