World Grand Prix 2026 kicks off tomorrow as global players arrive in Hong Kong for preparation and sightseeing

The six-day World Grand Prix 2026 will be held at the Kai Tak Arena starting Tuesday, with participating players including Ronnie O’Sullivan and Zhao Xintong taking a tour of The Peak for a welcome ceremony co-organized by the Tourism Board on Monday afternoon. 

O’Sullivan, who gained Hong Kong residency in 2024 through the Quality Migrant Admission Scheme, said he is used to handling external expectations and competitive pressure. He believes pressure helps him raise his performance.

Having revealed plans to move to the Middle East in a media interview, he was asked about the reason for not settling in Hong Kong. He said that he has no fixed residence.

Although he owns property in Dubai and spends more time there, he frequently visits Hong Kong, the mainland and Ireland to enjoy different lifestyles.

Meanwhile, the reigning World Snooker Champion Zhao Xintong noted that he has not set overly high goals for this tournament and hopes to enjoy the process. 

He said competing in the mainland and Hong Kong feels similar, especially since Hong Kong is close to his hometown Shenzhen and his relatives and friends are based here. 

“This is my first time officially taking part in a major snooker tournament in Hong Kong,” he said. “I’m really looking forward to it and hope to leave with great memories.”

Regarding his form this season, Zhao said he is gradually feeling pressure and is currently in a transitional and learning phase. He remains confident that his performances will continue to improve.

With the emergence of young players in China, he believed that the country’s snooker strength is steadily improving, showing potential to play an important role on the international stage. 

The World Grand Prix 2026 will take place over six days from February 3 to February 8 at the Kai Tak Arena. Thirty-two of the world’s elite snooker players will compete for the title and valuable world ranking points.