Rocket O'Sullivan uses Cantonese to promote election

Snooker superstar Ronnie O’Sullivan has joined hands with Hong Kong’s Director of Immigration Benson Kwok Joon-fung to encourage the public to cast their votes in the upcoming 2025 Legislative Council election.

In a lighthearted promotional video released on Monday, the seven-time world champion surprised viewers by delivering a message in Cantonese — “7th December, remember to vote!”

The video, posted on the Immigration Department’s social media platforms, opens with two billiard balls marked “12” and “7,” symbolising the election date — December 7.

O’Sullivan, nicknamed “The Rocket” for his fast-paced attacking play, turns to Kwok and says, “I have heard that December 7 is an important day for you.” Kwok replies, “ Yes! That’s the date for the Legislative Council general election — all eligible voters should cast their votes on the day.”

The clip ends with O’Sullivan flashing a smile and reminding Hongkongers in Cantonese to remember to vote, marking a rare and playful moment of cross-cultural engagement from the British-born cue sports icon.

O’Sullivan, 49, became a Hong Kong resident last October through the government’s Quality Migrant Admission Scheme, with assistance from the Immigration Department. Widely regarded as one of the greatest players in snooker history, he has claimed seven world titles and a record-breaking eighth UK Championship in 2023.

Speaking in earlier interviews, O’Sullivan said he chose to make Hong Kong his home because of his fond memories here and the friendships he built over the years.

An avid runner, he has often shared his love for trail running around the city, praising Hong Kong’s scenery and convenience. “In Hong Kong, you can reach nature in 20 minutes; in the UK, it takes hours,” he once said.

The government has ramped up promotional efforts in recent weeks to encourage citizens to take part in the Legislative Council election on December 7.

O’Sullivan’s cameo adds a touch of star power — and a few words of Cantonese charm — to the campaign’s call for active civic participation.