When news broke that Ronnie O’Sullivan, the seven-time world snooker champion and widely regarded as one of the sport’s greatest players, had been approved for Hong Kong’s Quality Migrant Admission Scheme, the city erupted in excitement. His arrival is not just a personal victory for O’Sullivan but symbolizes a broader shift in Hong Kong’s cultural and sports landscape. It’s a sign that Hong Kong’s policies aimed at attracting global talent are on the right track, and it provides a much-needed boost to the city’s international profile.
The incumbent Hong Kong Special Administrative Region government has been proactive in rolling out multilayered initiatives to attract professionals, reminiscent of the reforms of Shang Yang (390-338 BC), a famous statesman of the Qin state during China’s Warring States Period (475-221 BC). Shang Yang’s policies, particularly those encouraging migration, laid the economic groundwork for Qin’s eventual dominance of China. Similarly, HKSAR’s efforts to attract world-class professionals like O’Sullivan could help revitalize its economy and global standing.
In the Warring States Period, China was divided into competing states, each vying for power. Ultimately, the Qin state emerged victorious, unifying China under its rule. Historians often credit this success to Shang Yang’s reforms, which included policies that encouraged migration. He invited people from the overcrowded states of Han, Zhao and Wei to move to Qin with promises of tax exemptions and land grants. This influx of talent and labor helped Qin develop its economy and strengthen its military.
While Hong Kong is not engaged in warfare, the modern competition among global cities is no less fierce. In today’s capitalist world, a city’s competitiveness depends heavily on its ability to attract and retain talent. Bringing in global elites, whether in business, arts or sports, is crucial to driving innovation and development. O’Sullivan’s decision to relocate to Hong Kong is a testament to the city’s attractiveness and a step toward securing its place on the world stage.
O’Sullivan’s achievements in snooker are beyond question. His skill, speed and flair have made him a global sporting icon. His move to Hong Kong promises to bring additional attention to the city’s sports and cultural scene. Snooker, while perhaps not as mainstream as soccer or basketball, is a popular sport with a dedicated following, particularly in Asia. O’Sullivan’s presence in Hong Kong could inspire a new generation of players and fans, contributing to the overall health and vibrancy of the city.
Historically, Hong Kong has not placed a strong emphasis on developing elite athletes. Its education system has been more focused on academics, often at the expense of sports development. Only recently has the government announced plans to integrate physical education into primary school assessments. O’Sullivan’s arrival could help shift public perceptions and encourage a more balanced approach to education, where sports are seen as a valuable part of a student’s growth and development.
As Hong Kong continues to compete on the global stage, attracting talent like O’Sullivan is not just about celebrating their individual achievements. It’s about building a future where culture, sports and professionals are the foundations of a vibrant, inclusive and successful society
Some may argue that snooker is not a mainstream sport, especially compared with soccer or basketball. However, O’Sullivan’s success is not just about his trophies — it’s about his perseverance, discipline and passion. His journey from a troubled youth to a world champion resonates with people from all walks of life. In a city as competitive as Hong Kong, his story could inspire young people to pursue excellence, not just in sports but in all areas of life.
The Hong Kong SAR government, while celebrating O’Sullivan’s move, should take this opportunity to do more for the development of sports in the city. His arrival presents a unique chance to promote snooker and other sports, and perhaps even to position Hong Kong as an international hub for snooker events. The government could organize tournaments, establish training programs, and provide resources to attract more international athletes. This would not only enhance Hong Kong’s sporting image but also have economic benefits, creating a ripple effect across various sectors.
Just as Hong Kong has seen economic boosts from previous initiatives like “the panda economy” and “the dinosaur economy”, O’Sullivan’s move could spark what some are already calling “the O’Sullivan economy”. His presence could attract international fans, media attention and even tourists, all of which would contribute to Hong Kong’s economic growth.
O’Sullivan’s move also serves as a reminder that Hong Kong is an international city, and it must continue to embrace and celebrate its diversity. His arrival offers an opportunity to foster greater cultural exchange and understanding between different communities. In a city known for its fast-paced lifestyle and cutthroat competition, O’Sullivan’s laid-back demeanor and focus on mental well-being could provide a refreshing contrast, encouraging Hong Kong residents to balance success with self-care.
The sports world is one of the few arenas where people from all backgrounds can come together, united by a shared passion. O’Sullivan’s presence in Hong Kong could help bridge cultural gaps, promote inclusivity, and strengthen the city’s social fabric. Furthermore, his global fan base could help introduce Hong Kong to a wider audience, drawing attention to its cultural and sporting potential.
The news of O’Sullivan’s approval under the Quality Migrant Admission Scheme brings new hope and opportunities for Hong Kong. We should seize this moment to not only promote snooker but also elevate the role of sports in society. The government, businesses and the community must work together to leverage this momentum, ensuring that O’Sullivan’s move has a lasting impact on the city’s development.
As Hong Kong continues to compete on the global stage, attracting talent like O’Sullivan is not just about celebrating their individual achievements. It’s about building a future where culture, sports and professionals are the foundations of a vibrant, inclusive and successful society. Just as Shang Yang’s reforms helped Qin rise to power, the right policies today could help Hong Kong secure its place as a leading global city.
The author is the convener at China Retold, a member of the Legislative Council, and a member of the Central Committee of the New People’s Party.
The views do not necessarily reflect those of China Daily.
