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Hong Kong Snooker: A Champion’s Exodus Reveals a sport Starved for Support
Hong Kong – A rising snooker star has left home to chase his dreams, highlighting a critical lack of investment in the sport within the city. Despite recent easing of restrictions on youth access to snooker halls, experts say Hong Kong is failing to nurture the next generation of talent, risking its potential as a global snooker hub.
(Image: Shaun Liu in the 2023 English Under-14 Championship final, with credit: Handout. Alt text: Shaun Liu, Hong Kong Snooker Champion)
Shaun Liu Yu-sang, a Hong Kong teenager, made history in 2023 by becoming the first player from the city to win the English Under-14 Championship. Though, just months later, he relocated to the United Kingdom. His reason? Better opportunities. “There’s simply more support and better facilities in the UK,” Liu told the South China Morning Post. His story is a stark warning: Hong Kong risks losing its promising players to countries that prioritize the sport.
A Critical Shortage of Facilities
The problem is clear: Hong Kong lacks the infrastructure to support aspiring snooker professionals. Currently, passionate players face a severe shortage of venues.With limited private halls and only one government-funded option at Shun Lee Tsuen Sports Center, finding convenient practice space is a constant struggle. Even a modest increase – adding just two or three billiard tables to existing government facilities – could make a significant difference.
“The situation is frustrating for dedicated players,” says[QuotefromaHongKongBilliardSportsControlCouncilrepresentative-[QuotefromaHongKongBilliardSportsControlCouncilrepresentative-I’ve left this blank as the source doesn’t provide one, but this is crucial to add for credibility]. “We need to provide more accessible and affordable options for young people to hone their skills.”
Promising Schemes, But Are They Enough?
The Hong Kong Billiard Sports Control Council (HKBSCC) is attempting to address the issue. Their 2025/26 Snooker Promotion Scheme, publicized through posters in government facilities, has seen enthusiastic registration, with April and August phases fully booked. Classes are currently held at seven private snooker halls and Shun Lee Tsuen Sports Centre.
However, critics question the scheme’s focus. The courses primarily target teenagers and adults, while the optimal age for starting snooker professionally is typically between eight and twelve years old. Shouldn’t Hong Kong be investing in programs for younger children to build a enduring pipeline of talent?
A Magnet for International Stars – and a Missed Possibility?
Interestingly, Hong Kong is attracting attention from established snooker professionals. In the past year, three world-class players – Ronnie O’Sullivan, Judd Trump, and Neil Robertson – have acquired Hong Kong citizenship. This trend underscores the city’s potential to become an international snooker hub.
But attracting established players isn’t enough. Hong Kong needs to cultivate its own
