Ronnie O’Sullivan and Judd Trump are both now residents of Hong Kong. (Image: Getty)
For world No.1 right now, there really is no place like home. The 35-year-old is now based in Hong Kong , qualifying for residency through the Quality Migrant Admission Scheme.
That followed rival doing the same late last year. The pair both cited the rising influence of the Far East on snooker as part of the reasoning behind their decision. Ironically, the 2019 world champion is this week playing in a ‘home’ tournament, with the 2025 World Grand Prix being hosted by his new country for the first time.
Trump has started the ranking event well, beating Gary Wilson 4-2 at the Kai Tak Arena. With the event featuring the top 32 players from the one-year ranking list, he’s now into the last 16, where he’ll play Jack Liwoski.
And with a prize fund of £180,000 on offer to the eventual champion after beating Wilson, Trump lauded the new tournament venue, saying: “This is a big tournament now, with big prize money, a great arena, and a great city, so it’s turned into an amazing tournament!”
Trump is into the last-16 of the World Grand Prix. (Image: Getty)
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He seemingly has few regrets about switching locations either, revealing his love of the country began long before his big move. “It’s an incredible place,” he said. “Before I even contemplated coming here, I’ve always said how much I love it, and I think everybody I’ve spoken to says the same.
“There’s so much to do and see, and the place is buzzing. There is a lot of energy in Hong Kong, especially when the weather is good. There is a whole mix of things.
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“I think everybody that comes here loves it. Snooker is very fortunate to come to places like this. I’m glad such a big event has been taken here.”
Fellow resident O’Sullivan is not in action, though, as his tournament exile continues. ‘The Rocket’ is the reigning champion having beaten Trump in the 2024 final , with Hossein Vafaei replacing him.