Snooker legend Ronnie O'Sullivan has obtained Hong Kong residency through the Quality Migrant Admission Scheme, drawn by the city’s vibrant lifestyle, favorable tax system, and its strategic location for his career in Asia. Spending much of his time in the region, O'Sullivan aims to foster snooker’s growth in Hong Kong and across Asia, with plans to potentially settle there after retirement.
Seven-time world snooker champion Ronnie O’Sullivan, revered as one of the sport’s greatest talents, has deepened his connection to Asia by acquiring Hong Kong residency through the Quality Migrant Admission Scheme (QMAS). This program, introduced by the Hong Kong government, seeks to attract highly skilled professionals who bring unique talents and expertise to the city, strengthening its standing as a vibrant hub for global talent.
For O’Sullivan, the decision to make Hong Kong his second home is both a personal and professional one, embodying his love for the city, its people, and its potential for snooker.
With a professional career spanning three decades, O’Sullivan’s star power has been a major attraction in snooker arenas across the globe. Known as “The Rocket” for his speed and accuracy on the table, O’Sullivan’s reputation transcends national borders, drawing fans from London to Beijing.
His remarkable skills, combined with a candid, often humorous personality, have turned him into a global sports icon. In recent years, his career trajectory has increasingly intersected with Asia’s growing enthusiasm for snooker, particularly in China and Hong Kong, where the sport has enjoyed an expanding fan base.
A Growing Bond with Hong Kong and Asia
The connection between O’Sullivan and Hong Kong has deepened over recent years. In 2022, he played at the Hong Kong Masters, a prestigious event that brought snooker to a massive local audience. The tournament set a record, attracting over 8,000 spectators for a single match—a testament to the city’s love for the sport and O’Sullivan’s considerable influence. The snooker legend recalled the warm reception he received from fans, who filled the stadium and cheered passionately, creating an electric atmosphere. It was a moment he remembers fondly and one that likely influenced his decision to make Hong Kong his part-time home.
O’Sullivan’s admiration for Hong Kong extends beyond the snooker arena. Known for his adventurous spirit, he is captivated by the city’s unique cultural blend, bustling food scene, and vibrant lifestyle. “If you want to have a good life, you should come to Hong Kong,” O’Sullivan remarked in a recent interview, lauding the city’s attributes as a global metropolis. He has found in Hong Kong a perfect mix of urban charm and cosmopolitan flair, a balance he values as he spends more time in Asia.
The benefits of Hong Kong’s tax system also weighed into O’Sullivan’s decision. Like many high-profile expatriates, he appreciates the city’s favorable tax environment, which allows residents to retain more of their income compared to countries with higher tax burdens. This factor, combined with the opportunities the city offers for business and personal growth, made Hong Kong an attractive choice for the snooker star as he considers his future beyond the table.
The Quality Migrant Admission Scheme
O’Sullivan’s residency is part of Hong Kong’s Quality Migrant Admission Scheme, which selects applicants based on a range of factors, from professional achievements to cultural contributions. Under the scheme, O’Sullivan joins a select group of professionals who bring exceptional talent to Hong Kong, enriching its international reputation. The program’s goal is to cultivate a diverse talent pool that can contribute to the city’s industries, from finance and technology to sports and the arts.
The city’s ambition to attract global talent aligns well with O’Sullivan’s vision of expanding snooker’s reach in Asia, as his presence can inspire a new generation of snooker players and enthusiasts in the region.
For O’Sullivan, the move to establish residency in Hong Kong is also a practical decision in light of his career. He estimates that he spends around 70% of his professional time in Asia, primarily in China, where he participates in tournaments, promotional events, and exhibitions.
Having a base in Hong Kong, a city well-connected to major Asian destinations, makes it easier for him to manage his commitments across the continent. This logistical advantage, coupled with his growing personal affinity for the city, made the decision to apply for residency a natural choice.
The Future of Snooker in Asia
O’Sullivan’s choice to deepen his ties with Hong Kong reflects a broader trend in the world of snooker, as the sport sees a growing fan base in Asia. China has already made significant investments in the sport, hosting major tournaments and producing skilled players who have risen to international prominence. Hong Kong, with its strong snooker community, has also played a crucial role in nurturing the sport’s growth, drawing international talent and building local interest.
O’Sullivan’s presence in the region, especially in Hong Kong, can serve as a catalyst for this development, inspiring aspiring players and bringing greater visibility to the sport.
O’Sullivan’s influence extends beyond his playing prowess. Known for his engaging personality, he has a natural ability to connect with fans, a quality that has made him an effective ambassador for snooker. In Hong Kong, he sees the potential for snooker to flourish, particularly if young people take an interest in the sport. In interviews, he has expressed a desire to give back to the sport by mentoring young players and working to elevate snooker’s profile in Asia.
To further these goals, O’Sullivan has ventured into various business opportunities tied to the sport. He recently launched a snooker academy in Saudi Arabia, where he aims to train aspiring players and foster local talent. This endeavor is part of a larger vision to expand snooker’s reach beyond traditional markets, introducing the game to new regions and audiences. His decision to secure Hong Kong residency aligns with this mission, enabling him to focus on Asia, where he sees enormous potential for the sport.
Looking Ahead: A Life in Hong Kong?
While O’Sullivan has not committed to a full-time move to Hong Kong just yet, he has hinted that he may consider a permanent relocation after retiring from professional play. For now, he views his Hong Kong residency as a step toward building a closer connection to the region he spends much of his time in.
In the meantime, he plans to continue promoting snooker across Asia, sharing his love for the game with fans and young players alike. He remains a fixture in the city’s snooker scene, a familiar face who brings excitement and prestige to local tournaments.
As O’Sullivan navigates the next phase of his career, his residency in Hong Kong offers a new chapter filled with opportunity. His presence adds to the city’s cultural diversity and enhances its international profile, as he embodies both the excellence of a world-class athlete and the spirit of an intrepid traveler. For Hong Kong, welcoming an icon like O’Sullivan is more than just adding another celebrity to the city—it’s a chance to nurture a legacy in sports and inspire future generations of snooker players.
In his journey from the UK to Asia, Ronnie O’Sullivan has proven himself not only as a champion but as a true global ambassador of snooker. His decision to make Hong Kong his home reflects a genuine admiration for the city and a commitment to contributing to its future. Whether inspiring young players, engaging with fans, or simply enjoying a bowl of wonton noodles, O’Sullivan has found a place he belongs—a place that, in his words, promises “a good life.”
