Jimmy White Joins Hong Kong Through Talent Scheme, Plans Snooker Academy
SCMP · 2 SOURCESabout 2 hours ago2 MIN
Summary
Snooker legend Jimmy White, nicknamed "The Whirlwind," has officially become a Hong Kong resident after obtaining his Hong Kong identity card through the Quality Migrant Admission Scheme. The English six-time world championship runner-up joins fellow high-profile snooker stars Ronnie O'Sullivan and Judd Trump, who both secured Hong Kong residency in 2024 through the same scheme. White has revealed plans to establish a snooker academy in the city to discover and develop local talent, expressing his desire to promote snooker in Hong Kong at the highest level.
Key Points
- White won the 1988 Hong Kong Masters at Queen Elizabeth Stadium and reached the Hong Kong Open semi-finals in 1989 .
- He appeared alongside Stephen Chow Sing-chi in the 1991 comedy film "Legend of the Dragon," playing himself .
- White described Hong Kong as his "favourite city in the world" during the 2025 World Grand Prix at Kai Tak Arena .
- He stated: "This is a snooker hub — snooker in Asia started in Hong Kong and now it's looking as big as ever" .
- Hong Kong Immigration Department announced White's residency on Wednesday, sharing a video of the snooker star on its official Instagram page .
Why It Matters
White's arrival as a Hong Kong resident underscores the city's growing appeal to international sporting talent through preferential admission schemes. His plans to open a snooker academy could significantly boost youth development in the sport, building on Hong Kong's historic role as a snooker hub in Asia. The addition of another world-class player strengthens Hong Kong's position as a premier destination for professional snooker and could attract more major tournaments to the region .
White's arrival as a Hong Kong resident underscores the city's growing appeal to international sporting talent through preferential admission schemes. His plans to open a snooker academy could significantly boost youth development in the sport, building on Hong Kong's historic role as a snooker hub in Asia. The addition of another world-class player strengthens Hong Kong's position as a premier destination for professional snooker and could attract more major tournaments to the region .