Judd Trump without a permanent home amid Middle East tensions
Snooker’s top-ranked player Judd Trump has disclosed that he is effectively without a permanent home after fleeing Dubai amid escalating tensions between the United States and Iran in the Middle East, reports BritPanorama.
The 36-year-old former world champion has relocated to Bangkok, Thailand, where he has been staying in hotels on a day-to-day basis for several weeks. The outbreak of conflict between the US and Iran has upended his arrangements, forcing Trump to abandon his Dubai base for alternative accommodation while the situation remains volatile.
Trump, who is currently participating in the World Open in Yushan, China, initiated his move to Bangkok to maintain his practice regime during this period of uncertainty. He had previously relocated to Dubai from the United Kingdom in January 2024, citing superior weather conditions and better training facilities as his primary motivations.
Speaking to The Sun, Trump reflected on his predicament: “I had to leave [Dubai]. So we went to Bangkok. Yeah, it’s a bit up in the air at the moment really. I don’t really think I can go back at the moment, just in case I get stuck there.” His brother Jack, who also resided in Dubai, was temporarily stranded in the emirate before managing to leave the region.
Regarding his bleak housing situation, Trump elaborated: “I’m just kind of looking for somewhere else to live at the moment. At the moment I’ll just base myself in Bangkok. There’s some good practice there. Very well looked after. It’s just all a bit play it day-by-day at the moment.” His comments highlight the ongoing disruption to not only his personal life but his professional commitments as well.
Even amidst these challenges, Trump is attempting to keep a positive outlook, stating: “It’s just play it day by day, trying my best when I’m out there playing snooker. Away from the table, just take the positives.” However, he admitted the emotional toll of his uncertainty: “It’s just difficult at the moment because you don’t know where I’m going to be living.” As one of the sport’s leading figures, Trump’s situation reflects the wider implications of global instability on professional athletes.
As the situation continues to evolve, Trump’s adaptability will be closely observed, not just by fans but by his peers within the sport, underscoring the resilience required in a demanding professional landscape marked by unpredictable external pressures.
