25th December 2024 – (Hong Kong) World No. 1 snooker player Judd Trump has revealed that his relationship with Hong Kong figure skater Maisy Ma Hiu-ching has significantly influenced his recent performance resurgence. After becoming a Hong Kong resident through the Quality Migrant Admission Scheme earlier this week, Trump acknowledged that his girlfriend played a key role in his decision to settle in the city long-term.
On 23rd December, Trump officially received his Hong Kong identity card, marking a significant milestone in his journey as a resident. The Quality Migrant Admission Scheme allows skilled individuals to live and work in Hong Kong without a prior job offer, aiming to attract talent to the city. Trump’s successful application highlights his commitment to establishing roots in Hong Kong, where he hopes to further his career while enjoying the vibrant local culture.
In an interview, Trump expressed how personal motivations have evolved over time. “When you first meet someone, you’re very motivated,” he stated. “I don’t want to lose before I see her – I want to make her proud, as well as my family.”
The pair’s relationship blossomed after a chance meeting at the 2022 Masters in Hong Kong. Although they initially found it challenging to maintain a connection due to geographical distance, their reconnection this year has led Trump to prioritise spending time in Hong Kong. “From that moment, I tried my best to spend as much time as possible in Hong Kong to make it work,” he shared.
Trump, who boasts 30 ranking tournament titles, is set to compete at the 2024 MacauoSnooker Masters. As he prepares for this event, he reflected on how his girlfriend’s presence has added a layer of motivation to his career. “You have different motivations as you get older, like a family, girlfriend, and stuff like that,” he noted.
During his match against Chinese snooker player Ding Junhui, Ma was seen in the audience, attentively capturing moments of Trump’s performance on her phone, showcasing her support. Despite the couple’s low-key approach to their relationship, they have been spotted together on social media, further fueling public interest in their connection.
