Brian Cini has won the first IZIBET Elite Athlete Award for 2025 which covers the months of January and February.
Cini, 28, is the runner-up in the IBSF World Snooker Championships. Unfortunately, he was beaten by young Chinese player Yang Gao 5-3 in a highly balanced final.
Although Gao won the opening frame, Cini kept his composure and turned the match in his favor after securing the second and third frames with breaks of 67 and 78 respectively. Eventually, Gao won the fourth frame, and they went for the interval at 2-2.
Both players continued to show a high level of play, but 20-year-old Gao was firmly in control to seal the last two frames. With this victory, Yang Gao will have the right to play as a professional player on the World Snooker Tour. On the other hand, Brian Cini, had the opportunity to take part in the World Championships Qualifiers held in Sheffield, England, earlier this month.
Brian Cini is a worthy winner of this elite award
Franco de Gabriele, Chief Commercial Officer at National Lottery plc, commented: “At National Lottery plc, we take great pride in supporting local athletes and recognizing their hard work and dedication. Brian Cini’s remarkable achievement at the IBSF World Snooker Championships is a testament to his talent and commitment. The IZIBET Elite Athlete Award was created to honor such outstanding performances, and Brian is a truly deserving recipient. We wish him the very best in his career.”
Clinton Buhagiar, the Malta Sports Journalists Association’s President, said, “Brian is one of the best athletes we have at the moment. He exemplifies determination, professionalism, and perseverance. Reaching the finals in these championships highlights how seriously Brian takes his training. I do not doubt that we will continue to hear about him in the months and years to come.”
The IZIBET Elite Athlete Award recognizes exceptional performances by local athletes. It is awarded every two months.
A selection board composed of sports journalists and sports observers is responsible for evaluating the athlete’s achievements during the designated review periods This ensures a fair and thorough assessment process.
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