Hong Kong may revise elite sports eligibility criteria

Hong Kong officials are considering changes to the criteria for granting elite sports status in the city. This move could help snooker and tennis, which are currently at risk of losing support. Athletes from these sports have not met the required levels of success needed to maintain their Tier A rankings. To be considered elite, athletes typically need to qualify for the Olympics or the Asian Games and excel in international competitions. Sources say that the rules might only need slight adjustments. This would expand the number of sports that can receive funding and support from the Hong Kong Sports Institute. The Elite Sports Committee is scheduled to meet on Monday to discuss these changes. One committee member emphasized that the aim is to support the growth of billiard sports in Hong Kong, such as snooker and pool. Changes to existing laws, like lowering the minimum age for entering licensed billiard venues, may also be considered.