Doha: Qatari player Ahmed Saif has successfully qualified for the round of 16 of the World Snooker Championship for Individuals. The event is being hosted by the Qatar Billiards and Snooker Federation and will continue until November 9, featuring significant participation from the world's top snooker champions. According to Qatar News Agency, Ahmed Saif secured his spot in the round of 16 by topping the overall standings of Group 5. He achieved a perfect score by winning all his matches, defeating Egyptian Omar Rami (4-3), Sri Lankan Taha Arsath (4-2), and South Korean Seang Hyo (4-1). In contrast, Qatari player Ali Al Obaidli, who is the defending champion, was unable to advance past the round of 32. His journey ended after a strong match against Pakistani Muhammad Asif, where he lost (2-4). Al Obaidli had topped his initial group in the group stage, but did not qualify directly to the round of 16 due to fewer points compared to other group champions. He achieved victories against Indian Hussain Khan (4-2) and Canadian Charlie Brown (4-0), but lost to French player Nicolas Motriux (3-4). Additionally, Qatari players Muhanna Al Obaidli, Bashar Hussein, and Khamis Al Obaidli were eliminated in the group stage and exited the competition early. Meanwhile, the first rounds of the World Masters Men's Championship are underway with participation from five Qatari players: Ahmed Saif, Bashar Hussein, Abdul Mohsen Khamis, Mohammed Al Bingli, and Issa Al Qubaisi. The Women's Singles World Snooker Championship is also set to commence on Thursday, with all three tournaments being held concurrently. Mishlesh Al Khayareen, Chairman of the Referees Committee of the World Snooker Championship, acknowledged the high technical level of the matches, highlighting the participation of numerous world and Asian champions. He noted the distinctive atmosphere of the event and mentioned that there have been no complaints from referees. Al Khayareen also stated in a press release that the championship features 27 referees from Europe, Asia, and Africa, selected by the International Snooker Federation. The selection of referees is determined by the technical committee, but for the quarter-finals, semi-finals, and final matches, referees of a different nationality from the players are chosen.