Snooker star Ronnie O'Sullivan, who recently obtained residency in Hong Kong, said he will try to ramp up his form ahead of a major tournament scheduled in Kai Tak in March next year. The seven-time world champion became an SAR resident in October through the Quality Migrant Admission Scheme. Fellow snooker star Judd Trump followed suit earlier this week. O'Sullivan explained what drove the decision during an exclusive interview with RTHK in Macau, where he's headlining an invitational tournament. "I always enjoyed playing in Hong Kong, with a fantastic venue and good promoters," O'Sullivan said. "The Rocket", as he's often referred to, is also looking forward to the World Grand Prix at the Kai Tak Sports Park, the first snooker ranking event in the city in more than three decades. "I need to play some more tournaments to be ready, I think. My aim is to play more tournaments in the new year … I need to maybe make a bit more of an effort," he admitted. The 49-year-old Englishman said he'll consider "year by year" whether to wrap up his professional career. But he already revealed plans to set up a number of snooker clubs around the world, including in Hong Kong. "Everybody loves snooker, and everyone loves to watch snooker. Snooker is the hardest out of all the cue sports. It's very popular here in Hong Kong," he said. "I think [Hong Kong] needs a good academy, good training centre for young players to come and learn and get good coaching, and help them develop their own game." He also confirmed plans to relocate to the city, and is now looking for an apartment with a view of Victoria Harbour. Asked about Trump's decision to follow in his footsteps, O'Sullivan said it was "not out of surprise". "I think it makes sense since [Trump's] girlfriend is from Hong Kong. He likes being here more than the UK, it makes complete sense for him," he said. Asked whether he will be open to collaboration with Trump, O'Sullivan gave a more reserved answer. "I don't really align myself with other players. I like to be my own boss, do my own thing. I think it's better if we both do our own career, our own stuff away from snooker," O'Sullivan replied.
