Ahmed Saif

Saif dropped off the pro tour at the end of the 2014/15 season

Saif made snooker history in May 2013 when he became the first ever professional player from Qatar. He beat Jamie Clarke 4-1 in the final round of Q School event two with a top break of 57.

“I have been waiting for this day for a long time, it makes me very proud to be the first pro snooker player from my country,” said Saif, who represented Qatar at the 2010 Asian Games. “I have played very well this week and won a few close matches.

“I just hope I can play well on the main tour, keep my place, enjoy myself and do well for my country. Snooker is becoming popular now in Qatar and hopefully my success can help. It would be great to have a ranking event there,” added Saif, who names his favourite player as Ronnie O’Sullivan.