World champion Ronnie O’Sullivan in Hong Kong this August? It could happen if government gives nod to Masters

World’s best including Judd Trump and Mark Selby tweet support for Hong Kong Masters’ potential return to snooker calendar this summer

But organisers await government approval and it could hinge on whether Hong Kong’s tough quarantine rules remain in place

3-MIN READ3-MIN

Ronnie O’Sullivan plays Neil Robertson in the final of the Hong Kong Masters in 2017. Photo: Xinhua

Published: 5:32pm, 10 May 2022Updated: 7:13pm, 10 May 2022

The elite of world snooker including Ronnie O’Sullivan, Judd Trump and Mark Selby have been invited to play in Hong Kong this August – subject to the city’s government giving the all-clear.

Organisers are seeking approval to stage the Hong Kong Masters from August 4 to 7, and have already sounded out the top players.

Its feasibility and success could depend on Covid-19 prevention measures in Hong Kong, where tight travel restrictions remain in place and those playing indoor sport have been required to wear face masks.

Snooker bosses are in talks with the government about regulations including the current seven-day mandatory hotel quarantine for all arrivals in the city. The outcome of those talks, which could emerge by the end of the month, will be watched closely by other sports, as well as the city’s residents, who are not exempt from quarantine.

The 2017 Hong Kong Masters attracted snooker royalty including (left to right) Ng On-yee, Stephen Hendry, Shaun Murphy, Barry Hawkins, Judd Trump, Mark Selby, John Higgins, Marco Fu Ka-chun, Neil Robertson, Ronnie O’Sullivan and Jimmy White. Photo: Jonathan Wong

The tournament would take place at the city’s Queen Elizabeth Stadium, with access for spectators among the matters being discussed.