In a significant development, seven-time snooker champion Ronnie O’Sullivan has relocated to Hong Kong, a move that experts suggest may help him avoid the upcoming UK tax reforms that abolish non-domicile tax status. On November 2, 2024, UK finance minister Rachel Reeves announced substantial tax increases, which are set to impact high earners, including O’Sullivan, who earned £1.27 million (US$1.64 million) in the 2023-24 season. O’Sullivan arrived in Hong Kong on October 30, 2024, seeking the benefits of the region's favorable tax system, which includes no capital gains tax and lower income tax rates.
Experts indicate that to fully escape UK taxes, O’Sullivan may need to renounce his UK citizenship, a step that could complicate his ties to his home country. The implications of the UK tax reform extend beyond individual athletes; it is expected to affect approximately 150,400 Hongkongers who moved to the UK under the British National (Overseas) visa pathway. This demographic shift highlights the broader impact of tax policies on residency decisions among high-income individuals.
The move comes amid a backdrop of increasing scrutiny over tax policies in both the UK and Hong Kong. As the UK government seeks to boost revenue through higher taxes, many are weighing their options, with some considering relocation to regions with more favorable tax regimes. O’Sullivan's decision is emblematic of this trend, as athletes and other high earners navigate the complexities of international tax laws.
As the debate over tax reform continues in the UK, O’Sullivan's situation raises questions about the long-term effects of such policies on talent retention and the economic landscape. The snooker star's move could serve as a case study for others contemplating similar strategies in response to changing tax environments.