Anna 
Hong Kong’s snooker and tennis will maintain their Tier A elite sports status for the next two years, avoiding a downgrade that could have reduced funding from the Sports Institute. Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism Rosanna Law Shuk-pui made the announcement on Monday after a Sports Commission meeting.
Law explained that the commission had adopted more flexible evaluation criteria under the Elite Vote Support Scheme. Previously, Tier A sports were required to participate in at least three of the past four or next two Olympic or Asian Games. However, she acknowledged that athletes do not always control their sport’s inclusion in major events.
“Snooker, for example, will return to the Asian Games in 2030 after being excluded since 2010,” Law said.
For tennis, new evaluation standards will consider achievements in grand slam tournaments and top-three finishes in events like the Davis Cup and Billie Jean King Cup.
Additionally, para tenpin bowling (physical disability) will retain its Tier B ranking. Eight other sports will be upgraded starting next month based on strong performances. Among them, golf will move up to Tier A, while kayaking and para-swimming will be classified as Tier B.
Law also announced an 8.3% funding increase for all elite athletes, including para-athletes, to address inflation, market trends, and development needs. The monthly subsidy for the Senior Squad program will rise from HK$7,130 to HK$10,000 and will now include para-athletes.
“These subsidies provide financial stability but should not be seen as salaries,” Law emphasized. “Athletes dedicate themselves to their sport beyond monetary rewards.”
The changes come amid Hong Kong snooker’s growing recognition, highlighted by top players like Ronnie O’Sullivan and Judd Trump establishing residency in the city. The sport also gained attention with the recent World Grand Prix at Kai Tak Sports Park.
Tennis is also seeing a surge in talent, with rising star Coleman Wong Chak-lam reaching the round of 32 at the Miami Open.
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