The Rise of a Legend: Anupama Ramachandran, India’s Snooker Trailblazer

Anupama Ramachandran’s remarkable journey culminated in a historic victory at the 2025 IBSF Women’s World Snooker Championship held in Doha, Qatar. Her triumph over three-time champion Ng On Yee of Hong Kong in a nail-biting 3-2 final marks India’s first-ever world title in women’s snooker.

Born in Chennai, Anupama Ramachandran developed her love for cue sports at age 13 during a casual English billiards workshop. Guided by her uncle and coach, K. Narayanan, she honed her skills with discipline and sharp focus. Before this landmark win, she secured eight national junior titles and several international age-group championships, steadily climbing the world rankings.

The championship final was a testament to her resilience and tactical brilliance, especially in the decider where her opponent missed a crucial black ball, allowing Anupama to seize victory with the final pot. Sporting officials and the Indian government hailed her win as a “watershed moment,” inspiring countless girls across India to take up cue sports professionally.

Key Highlights

Anupama Ramachandran becomes India’s first woman World Snooker Champion in 2025 IBSF Championship

Defeated Hong Kong’s Ng On Yee 3-2 in Doha final

Began cue sports journey at 13 during a summer camp at Mylapore Club, Chennai

Coached by uncle K. Narayanan, sports performance specialist

Won eight national junior titles, multiple international age-group championships

Achieved career-high world ranking of 6 before championship

Victory celebrated as pivotal for women’s sports in India

Source: NDTV Sports, The Logical Indian, Women’s Snooker Official, Wikipedia.​