Jaws hit the deck when seven-time world snooker champion Ronnie O’Sullivan was granted a residency in Hong Kong last October.
‘The Rocket’ has swapped Chigwell for the special administrative region of China – a decision that coincides with his separation from soap star girlfriend Laila Rouass, who was in BBC’s EastEnders.
He has been a regular visitor over the years, as it has played home to several snooker tournaments. He famously won the Hong Kong Masters in 2022, beating Marco Fu 6-4 in the final.
After the big win, he posted on Instagram: “Loved this week in Hong Kong. Such an amazing event with brilliant fans. Great place for some running too. Congrats to @marcofu147 who played some lovely snooker all week and a tough final. Look forward to being back next time.”
But now O’Sullivan’s stay is much more permanent, thanks to a ‘Quality Migrant Admission Scheme’. So, what does Ronnie O’Sullivan’s life look like in his new home?
When you’re packing up your life and moving a near 12-hour flight away, it’s a huge step. You’re leaving your oldest friends and loving family behind.
But for 49-year-old O’Sullivan, it turns out he already has some good friends in Hong Kong to spend some time with. And who can forget, lots of opportunities to play snooker.
He explained: “I’ve spent a lot of time in Hong Kong. I’ve had many really nice trips here, got some good friends here, I enjoy my stay here.
“And obviously, snooker is very popular here as well. If you want to have a good life, you should come to Hong Kong.”
The move makes practical sense for O’Sullivan, with events like the Shanghai Masters, International Championship and the Xi’an Grand Prix all held in China. Best to mention the World Grand Prix, too, which will be held at Kai Tak Sports Park, located in the east of Hong Kong, in 2025.
O’Sullivan remarked: “I probably do about 70% of my work in China and Asia now, so I have to make a life here, I have to make a home. If you work a long time in a certain place you need to make it as comfortable as possible.”
But one of the main driving factors for his move is the ‘low tax’ for foreigners. He will still have to pay income tax, but the low rates are considered among the very best in a devolved economy.
He added: “Obviously, like myself, someone travelling from another country, the tax is also a good thing. But your food, your culture, it’s a great place to live, a great place to be.”
Going by his social media activity, Ronnie is enjoying all the luxuries Hong Kong has to offer. He’s been out sight seeing, exploring, as well as enjoying all the lovely food and rich culture it has to offer.
Back in May, he posted a self-confessed “photo dump” on Instagram of all the things he likes doing while there. These include attending snooker PR events, sailing on boats up and down canals, meeting people, as well as walking its bustling streets.
He also made sure to show off a luxurious bird’s-eye view of his new home. All accompanied by the caption: “Another photo dump, absolutely love it here!”
O’Sullivan recently celebrated his 49th birthday in Hong Kong – his first as an official resident – on December 5. He posted a heartfelt message on Instagram to thank everyone for the birthday messages.
His time away is seemingly giving the snooker icon peace of mind and plenty of time to think about ways to improve player wellbeing and champion mental health. Just days ago, O’Sullivan – who has always been open and honest about his struggles with depression, as well as alcohol and drug addiction – called for a professional to be on-hand at tournaments to support those who are facing difficulties.
“I can tell, just look at them and they’re struggling,” he observed. “They should have someone to go and talk to. I think that’s so important.
“You have coaches sorting your correction out but really you need someone just to unload a bit. I think it would really help the players.”
Seemingly not enough peace of mind, however, after an incident at the Champions League last week. O’Sullivan could be seen snapping his cue in pure frustration after missing an easy shot, before throwing it into a bin.
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