New Hongkonger Trump excited to play at home

Ayra Wang

World No 1 snooker player Judd Trump said he is so excited to compete in Hong Kong as a "new Hongkonger" at the World Grand Prix 2025 on March 4 to 9 at Kai Tak Sports Park.

Trump, who became a resident through the Quality Migrant Admission Scheme last year, shared his aspirations to elevate snooker and local talent and expressed hope that the city would one day produce world champions.

"I'm nervous but also very excited to be competing in Hong Kong for the first time as a Hong Kong resident," Trump said.

"I feel the support from the Hong Kong fans and I hope to ... make the city proud."

Trump said it would be a "perfect conclusion" if he could face seven-time world champion Ronnie O'Sullivan, who is also a Hong Kong resident, in the final match.

The six-day tournament will feature the world's top 32 snooker players. In the opening round, Trump will compete against China's Si Jiahui, while O'Sullivan will take on Britain's Kyren Wilson.

The tournament will include free-to-attend exhibition matches on March 8 and 9, with local player Marco Fu Ka-chun playing against Trump on March 8 and Ng On-yee facing Thailand's Mink Nutcharut the following day.

Matches will begin at 1pm daily, kicking off with Trump, Mark Williams, John Higgins, and Shaun Murphy on March 4, followed by O'Sullivan, Mark Selby, Ding Junhui, and Si on March 5.

The format includes best-of-seven frames for the last 32 and last 16, best-of-nine for the quarterfinals, and best-of-11 for the semifinals, with the final being best-of-19 frames.

Chairman Vincent Law Wing-chung of co-organizer Hong Kong Billiard Sports Control Council said while the venue can accommodate 4,000-5,000 spectators, some seats may have restricted views.

"Hong Kong fans are very civilized and appreciate the sport, so I'm confident there won't be any issues even with large crowds," he said.

Law also addressed concerns about limited practice tables, noting that in addition to two tables in the backstage area, there are two tables available at the players' hotel, totaling four tables for the 32 competitors.

He expressed uncertainty regarding funding for elite snooker.

"The current environment is not ideal for our local elite players and coaches, as we don't know what the future holds," Law said. "We hope the government sees Trump's love for Hong Kong and decides to support the sport accordingly."

ayra.wang@singtaonewscorp.com