Love helps world No 1 Trump find new home

Adelyn Lau

Hong Kong snagged another snooker champion - current world No 1 Judd Trump from England - who decided to become a Hong Kong resident to be with his local girlfriend.

He announced his residency on Christmas Eve, which he secured through the Quality Migrant Admission Scheme, months after another Englishman, Ronnie O'Sullivan - recognized as one of the most talented and accomplished players in snooker - got his in October.

Trump, 35, said his decision was not influenced by O'Sullivan's move, but by his Hong Kong girlfriend and the city's lifestyle. He added: "My girlfriend is the main reason, but Hong Kong is also very inspiring to me," Trump said, publicly confirming his relationship with a local for the first time in an interview on Wednesday. But he stopped short of confirming his girlfriend is 25-year-old figure skater and TV presenter Maisy Ma Hiu-ching, as suggested earlier by British newspaper The Sun.

"Since I first set foot in Hong Kong five to 10 years ago, I have truly fallen in love with this place and always hoped to return. Being granted residency feels very special," the 30-time ranking event champion said.

"The fast-paced lifestyle, the close proximity between people and the numerous activities available make Hong Kong very appealing. You can find a beach or other relaxing spots within a 15-minute drive. The diverse lifestyle here suits me very well."

Trump is also looking forward to convenient travel to the mainland and Macau after receiving his Hong Kong identity card on January 3.

He also shared plans to buy a "real home," which will help him recharge and improve his game, as more competitions are being held in Asia.

"The time I have spent living in Hong Kong over the past year has helped improve my performance in Asian tournaments. I know that having Hong Kong residency will benefit me and so it made the decision easier," he said.

Trump is expected to compete in the World Grand Prix at the Kai Tak Sports Park in March, describing his first "home" event as an opportunity to fulfill his mission of promoting snooker.

"Following the success of Marco Fu [Ka-chun] and Ng On-yee, I also hope to promote snooker and encourage children to enjoy the sport."

Trump expressed his admiration for the passion Hongkongers have for snooker, noting how often people recognize him on the street. He said it fuels his dedication to promote the sport here and inspires him to take meaningful action, such as establishing snooker clubs to nurture talent, with hopes for a homegrown world champion to emerge in the next 10 to 20 years.