Ronnie O’Sullivan gives verdict on Judd Trump copying him as snooker star ups sticks

was not surprised to hear that had followed in his footsteps by taking up residency in Hong Kong.Earlier this week, to gain residency in the former British colony. O’Sullivan did the same two months ago, citing the region’s low tax rates as a key factor.Foreign nationals still have to pay income tax in Hong Kong, but the rates are among the best in a developed economy.In an interview with , O’Sullivan confirmed he was looking to relocate to the city and said he was looking for an apartment with harbour views. He was also quizzed on Trump’s decision to become a resident, which came as little surprise to him.

“I think it makes sense since [Trump’s] girlfriend is from Hong Kong,” said The Rocket. “He likes being here more than the UK. It makes complete sense for him.”Asked about the possibility of a collaboration with Trump, O’Sullivan gave a more reserved answer. He said: “I don’t really align myself with other players. I like to be my own boss, do my own thing. I think it’s better if we both do our own careers.”The 49-year-old is looking to use his legendary status to boost the profile of snooker in Hong Kong, with plans to set up a number of clubs already in the works.”Everybody loves snooker and everyone loves to watch snooker,” he explained. “Snooker is the hardest out of all the cue sports. It’s very popular here in Hong Kong.”I think [Hong Kong] needs a good academy, good training centre for young players to come and learn and get good coaching and help them develop their own game.”

Trump, meanwhile, recently said the benefits of living in Hong Kong would outweigh the costs of leaving the UK in terms of his career.”While I’m playing well, I have to knuckle down and do what is best,” he told . “Spending a lot of time in Asia before events is probably best for my snooker at the moment. It’s definitely beneficial to be away from the UK.”Now I’m coming up with the UK Championship and the Masters, then probably not, but for the first half of the season the events are probably nowhere as big as the rest of the world.”Maybe it’s time for some of the players to get up and leave and give their all to snooker. There are a lot bigger events worldwide now. I enjoy my snooker while I’m in warm weather around the world rather than at home.”