Online Casino Doctor

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  • Flutter Entertainment’s Profits Soar 113% in 2024 as FanDuel Dominates U.S. Market

    Flutter Entertainment’s Profits Soar 113% in 2024 as FanDuel Dominates U.S. Market

  • Tribal Gaming Leaders Launch Self-Exclusion Program to Promote Responsible Gambling

    Tribal Gaming Leaders Launch Self-Exclusion Program to Promote Responsible Gambling

    Tribal gaming leaders are rolling out a groundbreaking self-exclusion program, marking a major step toward responsible gambling and community support. The initiative, which allows individuals to voluntarily ban themselves from all participating tribal casinos in a single move, will debut in Wisconsin this March before expanding nationwide.

    A Unified Effort to Address Problem Gambling

    For years, responsible gambling efforts have been fragmented, with self-exclusion policies varying by casino or state. Now, tribal leaders are taking matters into their own hands with a streamlined, tribal-wide solution.

    “This initiative reflects our unwavering commitment to the health of our people and communities,” said Ivory Kelly, CEO of the Tribal Council for Responsible Gaming. By offering a unified self-exclusion process, tribes are ensuring that those seeking help can take meaningful action without navigating complicated, casino-specific rules.

    This program is built on a partnership between tribal leaders and idPair, a software company known for its work in regulatory compliance and community-focused technology. The goal is simple: to give people the tools they need to control their gambling habits in a way that respects both their choices and tribal sovereignty.

    Who’s Behind the Initiative?

    A coalition of tribal gaming leaders and regulatory experts has come together to oversee the program. Their involvement ensures that the initiative is not only effective but also aligns with tribal values and gaming regulations.

    The Advisory Board members include:

    • Anika Howard – President/CEO, Wondr Nation
    • Jamie Hummingbird – Chairman, National Tribal Gaming Commissioners/Regulators
    • Oscar Schuyler – Chairman, Board of Regulators, Tribal Gaming Regulatory Authority, Alabama Coushatta Tribe of Texas
    • Ernie Stevens, Jr. – Chairman, Indian Gaming Association of Washington, DC
    • Tamara Van Schyndel – Executive Director, Paskenta Tribal Gaming Commission

    These leaders bring decades of experience in gaming regulation, tribal governance, and responsible gambling advocacy. Their guidance will help shape the expansion and effectiveness of the program as it reaches more states.

    How the Self-Exclusion Program Works

    The new system eliminates the confusion and red tape that often discourages people from seeking help. Instead of having to apply separately at each casino, participants can now self-exclude from all participating tribal casinos in a single step.

    Some key aspects of the program:

    • Easy Enrollment – Individuals can sign up once and be excluded from all casinos under the program.
    • Flexible Duration – Players can choose the length of their exclusion, whether temporary or permanent.
    • Technology-Driven – The platform is powered by idPair, ensuring secure and efficient management of exclusion requests.

    By making the process more accessible, tribal leaders hope to remove barriers for those who need it most.

    Tribal Nations Leading the Way

    Tribal nations have long been recognized for their leadership in responsible gambling initiatives. Many have developed in-house programs to support their communities, but this new effort takes it a step further.

    “This initiative not only underscores the commitment of tribal nations to player protection but also sets a precedent for others to follow,” said Ernie Stevens, Jr., Chairman of the Indian Gaming Association.

    By working together, tribal leaders are demonstrating that responsible gambling isn’t just a casino issue—it’s a community issue. Their collaborative approach could inspire broader industry changes, encouraging commercial casinos and other gambling establishments to adopt similar measures.

    What’s Next for the Program?

    The launch in Wisconsin this March is just the beginning. As more tribal casinos join the initiative, the impact could be significant, providing a safety net for individuals struggling with gambling addiction.

    Looking ahead, tribal leaders plan to evaluate the program’s effectiveness and make adjustments as needed. Expansion into additional states is expected, with more tribes expressing interest in joining the initiative.

    With this program, tribal nations are proving that responsible gaming isn’t just about policies—it’s about people.

  • Tribes Warn CFTC That Prediction Markets Threaten Sovereignty and Gaming Revenue

    Tribes Warn CFTC That Prediction Markets Threaten Sovereignty and Gaming Revenue

    Native American tribes are pushing back against the expansion of prediction markets into sports event contracts, arguing that the move threatens their sovereignty and could undercut billions of dollars in gaming revenue. Their concerns have been submitted to the U.S. Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) ahead of a major roundtable discussion scheduled for April 30, 2025.

    Strong Opposition from Tribal Entities

    The public comment period on the CFTC’s review of prediction markets drew 19 submissions, with more than half—11 in total—coming from tribal entities. That level of unity is rare in Indian Country, underscoring the deep concern about how federally regulated sports contracts could impact tribal gaming.

    At the core of their argument is the belief that allowing sports contracts to be listed and traded undermines existing gaming agreements under the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act (IGRA). These agreements give tribes exclusive rights to operate certain types of gaming, often in exchange for revenue-sharing deals with states.

    One tribal organization put it bluntly: “Allowing sports contracts to be listed and traded will interfere with the sovereign right of tribes and states to exercise their police power to regulate gaming,” the Indian Gaming Association (IGA) wrote in its submission to the CFTC.

    Billions at Stake in Revenue-Sharing Agreements

    Tribes warn that the financial consequences of expanding prediction markets could be massive.

    Gaming compacts between states and tribal nations generate billions in revenue, funding essential services like healthcare, education, and infrastructure. If prediction markets are allowed to enter the space unchecked, tribes argue, they could siphon off money that would otherwise flow to tribal communities.

    • Many gaming compacts include revenue-sharing provisions that could be weakened if prediction markets disrupt the industry.
    • Unlike tribal casinos, prediction markets are not subject to gaming taxes or responsible gambling measures, creating an uneven playing field.
    • Tribes fear that new federally regulated markets could bypass state-level gambling laws entirely, eroding their exclusivity rights.

    The Growing Footprint of Prediction Markets

    Platforms like Kalshi and Polymarket have already expanded from political and cultural event contracts into sports betting-style markets. While legal at the federal level, these markets operate across all 50 states without the same restrictions placed on traditional gaming operators.

    This raises concerns about fairness. Tribal casinos and state-licensed sportsbooks must adhere to strict regulations, while prediction markets enjoy a different set of rules. Critics argue that this creates an unfair competitive advantage for platforms that aren’t required to contribute tax revenue or fund responsible gambling programs.

    A key question for regulators is whether sports event contracts should be classified as gaming—a category that falls under state jurisdiction—or as financial instruments, which would place them under federal oversight. The answer could have major implications for both tribes and the broader gambling industry.

    What’s Next?

    With the CFTC’s roundtable on April 30 fast approaching, the debate over prediction markets is heating up. Tribes are making it clear they want a seat at the table, warning that any move to approve sports contracts without their input could trigger legal challenges.

    For now, the future of these markets remains uncertain. But one thing is clear: Native American tribes are prepared to fight to protect their gaming sovereignty.

  • Macau Casino Revenue Rebounds in February, But Full Recovery Remains Elusive

    Macau Casino Revenue Rebounds in February, But Full Recovery Remains Elusive

    Macau’s casino industry saw a much-needed rebound in February, raking in 19.74 billion patacas (US$2.47 billion) in gross gaming revenue (GGR). The increase—8% higher than January’s figures and up 6.8% year-on-year—ended a two-month slump. But while the numbers show signs of stability, the road to pre-pandemic recovery remains bumpy.

    February Brings Relief After Two Months of Decline

    For the first time in three months, Macau’s casinos posted a year-on-year increase in revenue. December 2024 had kicked off a downward trend, with GGR slipping 2% to 18.2 billion patacas (US$2.27 billion). The decline deepened in January 2025, when revenue dropped 5.6% compared to the previous year, landing at 18.25 billion patacas (US$2.26 billion).

    The turnaround in February came at a critical time. The Chinese New Year holiday, spanning from January 28 to February 4, provided a much-needed boost. The extended festivities, coupled with a strong weekend, helped lift Macau’s gaming revenue back into positive territory.

    But not everyone is celebrating just yet. Despite the bounce, February’s revenue is still only 78% of what Macau pulled in during the same month in 2019. That gap serves as a reminder that full recovery is still a work in progress.

    Chinese New Year and Tourism Give Casinos a Boost

    A surge in visitors played a crucial role in February’s revenue increase. Macau welcomed a steady influx of tourists during the Chinese New Year break, with many making their way to the city’s iconic casinos. The holiday traditionally drives strong gaming numbers, and this year was no exception.

    While the increased foot traffic was a welcome sight, it also underscored the changing nature of Macau’s casino market. Once dominated by VIP high rollers, the city’s gaming industry has been shifting toward a more mass-market, tourism-friendly model.

    Some key takeaways from the February rebound:

    • Chinese New Year provided a temporary boost, but sustainability remains uncertain.
    • Visitor numbers were strong, but VIP gambling remains far below pre-pandemic levels.
    • Casinos are still adapting to a more regulated, family-oriented tourism strategy.

    The first two months of 2025 have put Macau slightly ahead of 2024’s performance, but the question remains: can the momentum last?

    Xi Jinping’s Visit and the Impact of Security Measures

    December’s revenue dip wasn’t just a seasonal slowdown. Analysts have pointed to Chinese President Xi Jinping’s visit for the Macau handover celebrations as a major factor.

    Strict security protocols during the visit led to fewer high-stakes gamblers and a more subdued casino floor atmosphere. That decline carried into January, as some VIP players may have opted to stay away longer.

    This pattern highlights a broader issue—Macau’s reliance on external factors. Policy shifts, regulatory changes, and government-led initiatives all play a role in shaping the industry’s future. And with Beijing continuing to push for a more diversified economy, the days of unchecked gaming growth seem to be over.

    The Long Road Back to Pre-Pandemic Levels

    Even with February’s rebound, Macau’s casino revenue is still lagging behind its pre-2020 highs. The industry faces several challenges:

    1. Loss of VIP Gamblers – Beijing’s crackdown on junket operators has significantly reduced high-stakes play, once a major driver of Macau’s revenue.
    2. Tighter Regulations – The government has been pushing for more oversight, leading to a more controlled gaming environment.
    3. Diversification Efforts – Casinos are being encouraged to invest in non-gaming attractions, shifting the city’s focus away from pure gambling revenue.

    For now, the numbers are heading in the right direction, but a full recovery remains uncertain. The coming months will be crucial in determining whether Macau can sustain its growth—or if February was just a temporary boost.

  • Ryan Miller Claims PokerGO Mixed Games $10,000 H.O.R.S.E. Title in Star-Studded Finale

    Ryan Miller Claims PokerGO Mixed Games $10,000 H.O.R.S.E. Title in Star-Studded Finale

    An elite field of 95 poker heavyweights battled it out in the 2025 PokerGO Tour Mixed Games $10,000 H.O.R.S.E. event. When the dust settled, it was Ryan Miller who emerged victorious, bagging $247,000 and his latest major title. The two-time WSOP bracelet winner outlasted a stacked final table at the PokerGO Studio in ARIA Resort & Casino, Las Vegas.

    A Career Milestone for Miller

    For Miller, this win is among his biggest achievements in live tournament poker. His $247,000 payday ranks as his second-largest cash, only trailing the $344,677 he won in 2023 for taking down the WSOP Stud Eight-or-Better Championship. The Pennsylvania native has now surpassed $1.3 million in recorded tournament earnings, with most of his success coming at the WSOP.

    Beyond the cash prize, Miller also secured 540 Card Player Player of the Year (POY) points. That boost propelled him into the top 200 of the 2025 POY leaderboard, presented by Global Poker.

    Big Names Fall Before the Final Table

    The tournament started with 95 players, but only 14 cashed, splitting the $950,000 prize pool. The money bubble burst late on Day 1, sending several high-profile players to the rail.

    Among the notable names eliminated before the final table were:

    • Yuri Dzivielevski (13th, $19,000) – The five-time bracelet winner fell just after the bubble burst.
    • Daniel Negreanu (9th, $29,500) – The seven-time bracelet winner couldn’t convert a deep run into a final table appearance.
    • Nick Guagenti (8th, $33,250) – The two-time bracelet winner just missed the last seven.

    With that, Day 2 began with seven players left and Miller leading the pack.

    Early Exits at the Final Table

    It didn’t take long for eliminations to start rolling in. First out was five-time WSOP bracelet winner Robert Mizrachi (7th, $38,000). He committed his last chips in a hand of Stud Eight-or-Better, but his pair of aces and flush draw failed to improve against Miller’s kings up.

    Next to go was Alexander Livingston (6th, $47,500). The 2019 WSOP Main Event third-place finisher fought hard on a short stack but fell in an Omaha Eight-or-Better hand. Holding A-2 for the nut low draw, he watched as Miller scooped the high side with a full house, while Chino Rheem secured the low.

    Another former WSOP champion, Johannes Becker (5th, $66,500), bowed out in a round of Razz. He started strong but caught bad runouts, allowing Samuel Sternfield to make an 8-7-5-4-A, sending Becker to the rail. With this cash, Becker is now closing in on $4.4 million in career tournament earnings.

    The Final Four Battle for Glory

    With only four players left, the intensity ramped up. Sternfield, Rheem, and Miller each took turns holding the chip lead. The structure of H.O.R.S.E., a rotating mix of Hold’em, Omaha, Razz, Stud, and Stud Eight-or-Better, tested every player’s versatility.

    One defining moment came in a round of Stud, where Rheem lost a crucial hand to Miller, shifting momentum in the latter’s favor. Miller continued to apply pressure, using his deep mixed-game experience to outmaneuver his opponents.

    A Well-Deserved Victory

    By the time it reached heads-up play, Miller had a commanding lead. His opponent fought hard but couldn’t overcome the gap. In the final hand, Miller locked up the title with a strong Stud Eight-or-Better hand, securing another prestigious win in his growing poker career.

    With this victory, Miller adds another accolade to his already impressive resume. As 2025 unfolds, he’s undoubtedly a player to watch, especially with WSOP season just a few months away.

  • Texas Lottery Commission Moves to Ban Courier Sales After $83 Million Jackpot Sparks Controversy

    Texas Lottery Commission Moves to Ban Courier Sales After $83 Million Jackpot Sparks Controversy

    The Texas Lottery Commission has decided to put an end to lottery ticket courier services, a move that comes amid growing scrutiny over a recent $83.5 million jackpot win. State officials are raising concerns about the legitimacy and security of these online lottery sales, leading to a major policy shift that could reshape how Texans buy their tickets.

    Commission Cracks Down on Couriers

    On Monday, the Texas Lottery Commission (TLC) took a firm stance against third-party couriers that facilitate lottery ticket purchases through apps and websites. Executive Director Ryan Mindell made it clear that these services are not permitted under Texas law.

    Mindell warned that unregulated couriers create risks that go beyond just unauthorized sales.

    • Potential for money laundering through anonymous purchases
    • Fraudulent ticket sales and misrepresentation of official lottery affiliations
    • Lack of oversight in customer transactions

    The TLC plans to introduce rule changes at an open meeting on March 4, followed by a 30-day public comment period. This represents a significant departure from Mindell’s previous stance, where he claimed the commission lacked the authority to regulate or prohibit courier sales.

    Lieutenant Governor Calls Out the Sudden Policy Shift

    Texas Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick isn’t buying the TLC’s change of heart. He believes the timing is suspicious, given that just days ago, he personally investigated a store where the winning $83 million ticket was sold.

    Patrick took to social media, blasting the commission’s decision:

    “Suddenly, only six days after I visited a store that sold the winning lottery ticket, the Commission quickly announced they would end all courier services. I now have even less confidence in the integrity of the Lottery Commission with this abrupt turnaround.”

    Patrick has long pushed to eliminate courier services, citing concerns over transparency and potential fraud. The Texas Senate already passed a bill in 2023 to ban these services, but it stalled in the House.

    “If the Lottery Commission thinks this ends our investigation, they are wrong,” Patrick warned. “We will restore the integrity of the Texas Lottery so people can trust its fairness. Otherwise, the Senate will end the lottery this session.”

    Industry Pushback: “This Ban is Unnecessary”

    Courier service providers aren’t taking the decision lightly. A spokesperson for the Coalition of Texas Lottery Couriers called the move unnecessary and abrupt, arguing that a regulatory solution should have been considered instead.

    Many courier companies had hoped that HB 3201, a bill proposing oversight rather than a ban, would provide a compromise. Instead, the TLC’s latest decision leaves them scrambling for options.

    The Bigger Problem: Texas Lottery’s Oversight Issues

    This controversy isn’t just about online lottery sales. Lawmakers and watchdog groups have raised concerns about how the Texas Lottery is being managed.

    • Past hearings revealed lapses in monitoring bulk ticket purchases.
    • Some executives allegedly operated in legal gray areas, allowing questionable practices.
    • The Texas Lottery’s contributions to education funding could be at risk if public trust declines.

    Governor Greg Abbott has taken notice. He directed the Texas Rangers to investigate not just the $83.5 million jackpot, but also a previous $95 million win in 2023 that stemmed from a bulk ticket purchase.

    “Texans must be able to trust in our state’s lottery system,” Abbott said. “We need to ensure that every dollar is accounted for and that the lottery is conducted lawfully and transparently.”

    What’s Next?

    The upcoming March 4 meeting will be critical in determining the fate of courier services in Texas. Public comments could influence the final decision, but given the political pressure from state leaders, a reversal seems unlikely.

    Meanwhile, the Texas Rangers’ investigation could uncover deeper issues within the lottery system. If they find evidence of misconduct, it could shake the foundation of Texas’ lottery operations altogether.

    For now, Texans who rely on courier services may need to start heading to physical retailers for their tickets. And as the investigation unfolds, bigger changes could be on the horizon.

  • Resorts World Las Vegas Names Carlos Castro as CFO Amid Leadership Shake-Up

    Resorts World Las Vegas Names Carlos Castro as CFO Amid Leadership Shake-Up

  • CreedRoomz to Showcase Certified Live Casino Games at SBC Summit Rio 2025

    CreedRoomz to Showcase Certified Live Casino Games at SBC Summit Rio 2025

    Live casino provider CreedRoomz is gearing up for a major presence at SBC Summit Rio 2025, happening on February 26-27 at the Riocentro exhibition center in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. As one of the few companies operating under Brazil’s new gaming regulations, CreedRoomz will highlight its certified live casino games, offering a glimpse into the future of online gaming in the country.

    Certified Live Casino Games for Brazil’s Growing Market

    CreedRoomz enters SBC Summit Rio with an edge—regulatory approval under Brazil’s new gaming laws. This certification allows the company to legally operate in Brazil’s evolving gambling market, giving it a head start over competitors.

    The demand for legal, high-quality live casino gaming in Brazil is surging. CreedRoomz, with its compliance-ready solutions, aims to capitalize on this growth. By exhibiting at Stand B890, the company plans to showcase its localized live casino offerings, ensuring operators can seamlessly integrate their services while staying within regulatory boundaries.

    New Game Releases: Richie Wheel & Richie Roulette

    Attendees at SBC Summit Rio will get an exclusive look at CreedRoomz’s latest live casino show games—Richie Wheel and Richie Roulette. These new titles introduce:

    • Dynamic multipliers that enhance winning potential
    • Engaging gameplay mechanics designed to keep players entertained
    • Fresh retention strategies for operators looking to boost user engagement

    “These titles are set to bring fresh excitement to players while offering operators new ways to enhance player engagement and retention,” the company shared.

    Full Suite of Live Casino Solutions on Display

    Beyond its new releases, CreedRoomz will present its full range of live casino solutions, designed to provide operators with flexibility and customization. Live casino gaming has become increasingly popular worldwide, and CreedRoomz is pushing to deliver high-quality, immersive experiences tailored to Brazilian players.

    One key highlight is the company’s ability to let operators personalize their offerings. From branded live dealer tables to unique in-game features, CreedRoomz is offering more than just standard casino games—it’s providing fully adaptable live gaming environments.

    A Strategic Move in Global Expansion

    The Brazilian gaming market is heating up, and securing regulatory approval was a critical step for CreedRoomz’s global strategy. The company recently announced its successful acquisition of certification under Brazil’s new gaming legislation, marking a major milestone in its expansion plans.

    With this certification, CreedRoomz is now fully authorized to:

    • Offer its portfolio of live casino games to Brazilian players
    • Partner with local operators to provide compliant gaming experiences
    • Establish a strong foothold in one of Latin America’s fastest-growing gambling markets

    SBC Summit Rio 2025 Set for Record Attendance

    This year’s SBC Summit Rio is expected to be the biggest edition yet. Organizers anticipate more than 15,000 attendees, a staggering 275% increase over the 2024 event. Held in a 70,000-square-meter venue, the event will bring together:

    • Global and regional gaming operators
    • Affiliates and influencers
    • Technology suppliers
    • Government representatives and regulators
    • Media professionals covering the industry

    From February 25-27, the event will serve as a key networking and business hub for the Latin American gaming sector. CreedRoomz’s participation underscores the significance of Brazil’s newly regulated market and the opportunities it presents for the live casino industry.

  • Vegas Strip Holds Top Gaming Spot Despite 4.4% Revenue Dip

    Vegas Strip Holds Top Gaming Spot Despite 4.4% Revenue Dip

    The Las Vegas Strip is still king in the U.S. gaming market, even as revenue slipped 4.4% last year. That’s the key takeaway from the American Gaming Association’s (AGA) latest Commercial Gaming Revenue Tracker. While the industry remains strong, the report highlights a shift—regional gaming hubs are seeing more action, and sports betting is raking in billions.

    Mixed Results Across U.S. Casino Markets

    The AGA report makes one thing clear: not all gaming markets are thriving. Among the top 20 casino markets in the country, only six saw revenue growth last year. More gamblers are choosing to stay local rather than travel to major casino hubs.

    Even with its revenue decline, the Las Vegas Strip remains the top gaming market in the U.S. Nearby, however, downtown Las Vegas and Reno/Sparks saw revenue climb. Atlantic City, the nation’s second-largest gaming market, also took a hit with a 1.7% drop.

    Some markets fared better. Chicago’s casino scene got a boost from new properties, keeping it the third-largest market. The Baltimore-Washington, D.C. region held onto fourth place. Detroit, which struggled with labor disputes in 2023, bounced back, recording its best revenue since 2019.

    Top-Performing Casinos and Growing Markets

    At the individual casino level, there were some notable winners.

    • Resorts World New York City kept its title as the highest-grossing casino outside of Nevada.
    • MGM National Harbor in Maryland and Encore Boston Harbor in Massachusetts rounded out the top three.
    • Rivers Casino Portsmouth in Virginia became one of the highest-earning casinos in the country in just its second year of operation.

    More broadly, 28 out of 36 commercial gaming jurisdictions set new revenue records, thanks to the combined strength of land-based gaming, sports betting, and online casinos.

    Some states saw double-digit growth in traditional casino gaming, thanks to new openings. Nebraska led the way with a staggering 60.1% jump in revenue. Virginia followed at 32%, while Illinois saw an 11% boost.

    Not every state had a good year. Several states that rely on sports betting saw revenue decline, including Montana (-16%), Ohio (-0.9%), and Mississippi (-2%). In total, eight states saw sports betting revenue fall in 2024.

    Sports Betting Revenue Nears $14 Billion

    If there’s one sector of the gaming industry that’s still in full-on growth mode, it’s sports betting. The numbers are eye-popping.

    • Americans legally bet $147.91 billion on sports in 2024, up 23.6% from 2023.
    • Nationwide sports betting revenue surged 25.4%, hitting $13.71 billion.
    • A slightly higher hold percentage (9.3% vs. 9.1% in 2023) helped boost operator revenue.

    New York remains the undisputed leader in the sports betting market, raking in $2.1 billion in revenue last year—a 23% increase. Illinois leapfrogged New Jersey to take the No. 2 spot, with a 21.1% jump to $1.2 billion.

    Massachusetts made a big move, climbing to seventh place as sports betting revenue jumped 38.8% year-over-year. Meanwhile, Ohio—the fourth-largest sports betting market—was the only top-10 state to see a revenue decline, slipping 3.9%.

    By the end of 2024, sports betting was legal in 38 states and Washington, D.C., with Missouri set to join soon. Texas, Mississippi, and Oklahoma could be next to legalize, setting the stage for even bigger numbers in the coming years.

    What’s Next for the Gaming Industry?

    The AGA’s report signals a shift in how Americans gamble. While Las Vegas remains the top destination, regional casinos are seeing more play. Sports betting, meanwhile, continues to grow at a breakneck pace.

    With new markets opening and major states like Texas considering legalization, the gaming industry isn’t slowing down anytime soon. But the question remains: how long can this winning streak last?

  • Joey Weissman Clinches 2025 PokerGO Cup Series Championship with Dominant Run

    Joey Weissman Clinches 2025 PokerGO Cup Series Championship with Dominant Run

    The 2025 PokerGO Cup delivered high-stakes drama, record-breaking fields, and a thrilling showdown for the series championship. With a total of $9,405,000 in prize money awarded across eight events at the PokerGO Studio inside ARIA Resort & Casino in Las Vegas, poker fans witnessed an unforgettable battle among the game’s top pros. But one player stood above the rest—Joey Weissman.

    The 36-year-old Las Vegas-based pro turned in a stellar performance, final-tabling half of the events, including one outright victory and three runner-up finishes. His consistency paid off, earning him the coveted PokerGO Cup title, $930,600 in winnings, and the top spot on both the PokerGO Tour and Card Player Player of the Year leaderboards.

    Weissman’s Near-Flawless Performance

    Weissman’s path to the title was nothing short of remarkable. In the series opener—a $5,000 buy-in tournament that drew a record-breaking 177 entries—he fought his way to heads-up play before finishing second to Michael Moncek, earning $123,900.

    Then, in event #2, a $10,000 buy-in no-limit hold’em tournament, Weissman found himself in a rematch against Moncek. This time, he closed the deal, claiming the trophy and a $295,000 payday.

    Weissman’s momentum continued in event #4, where he once again reached heads-up play, this time facing Eric Blair. Despite another second-place finish, he pocketed $161,700.

    The biggest cash of his run came in the $25,000 buy-in finale, which saw 59 players battle for the last title of the series. Weissman reached heads-up play yet again, but his pocket tens fell to Justin Zaki’s A-10, denying him a second title. Still, the runner-up prize of $350,000 secured his series victory.

    The Numbers Behind the Victory

    Weissman ended the series with a commanding 758 points on the PokerGO leaderboard—190 points clear of second-place finisher Eric Blair.

    • Total cashes: 4
    • Total winnings: $930,600
    • Final table appearances: 4
    • Event titles: 1

    His consistency across multiple events made him the undisputed series champion, setting the stage for what could be a career-defining season.

    Eric Blair and Michael Moncek Shine in Second and Third

    While Weissman stole the headlines, Eric Blair and Michael Moncek had outstanding runs of their own.

    Blair was the only player to win two events in the series, finishing second overall with 568 points and $645,850 in winnings. His biggest victory came in event #4, where he outlasted Weissman to take home the title.

    Moncek, meanwhile, won event #1 and finished second to Weissman in event #2, racking up $483,750 and securing the third spot in the final standings.

    Kristen Foxen’s Historic Performance

    One of the biggest stories of the series was Kristen Foxen, who not only won event #7 but also made three total cashes, finishing fourth in the standings. Her strong showing pushed her past Vanessa Selbst to become the all-time female money leader in poker history.

    Foxen’s breakthrough performance earned her $401,300, and her presence at the final tables proved she could compete against the best high-stakes players in the game.

    The Final Standings

    The top ten players from the 2025 PokerGO Cup featured some of the biggest names in poker, with a mix of champions and consistent deep-runners.

    Rank Player Points Titles Cashes Winnings
    1 Joey Weissman 758 1 4 $930,600
    2 Eric Blair 568 2 3 $645,850
    3 Michael Moncek 484 1 3 $483,750
    4 Kristen Foxen 332 1 3 $401,300
    5 Sergio Aido 327 1 2 $345,300
    6 Adam Hendrix 316 1 1 $316,050
    7 Keith Lehr 283 0 4 $352,275
    8 Justin Zaki 283 1 1 $417,000
    9 Patrick Leonard 244 0 3 $288,550
    10 Michael Berk 224 0 4 $288,500

    What’s Next for Weissman?

    With his PokerGO Cup triumph, Weissman now sits atop the PokerGO Tour leaderboard and the Card Player Player of the Year standings. The win cements his reputation as one of the most consistent and formidable players on the high-roller circuit.

    His ability to navigate through large fields and consistently reach final tables suggests he could be in for a massive 2025 season. If he continues this level of play, more titles—and perhaps another major championship—could be on the horizon.