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Category: Poker

  • Frankie C Joins Card Player: The Next Generation of Poker Stars

    Frankie C Joins Card Player: The Next Generation of Poker Stars

    Poker has long captivated audiences, from smoke-filled backrooms to the glittering stages of televised tournaments. But how can the game stay relevant and attract a new generation of players? Enter Frankie Cucchiara, better known as Frankie C—a high-stakes poker pro and content creator who’s shaking up the scene with his innovative approach.

    Frankie C isn’t just playing the game; he’s turning poker into a spectacle. With millions of followers consuming his engaging YouTube content, he’s proving that poker can capture the attention of those who might never have considered the game before.

    Frankie C: The Face of Modern Poker

    Frankie C’s journey into poker stardom isn’t a typical one. A native of Texas, he’s a professional poker player who has transformed his career into a multimedia venture. While excelling at the tables, Frankie also documents his jet-setting lifestyle, taking viewers along for the ride through his popular vlogs. From high-stakes tournaments to candid moments, Frankie’s authenticity has struck a chord with fans.

    Adding to his already impressive plate, Frankie has a new baby at home with his partner, fellow poker pro Kitty Kuo. On top of that, he’s learning Chinese—a testament to his relentless drive to grow both personally and professionally.

    “I want to make poker a spectacle,” he said, summing up his mission to reinvigorate the game for younger audiences. Through relatable storytelling and a focus on entertainment, Frankie is helping to change the perception of poker as a static game into something dynamic and thrilling.

    What Frankie Brings to Card Player

    Frankie C recently joined forces with Card Player Magazine, not only as a brand ambassador but also as a consultant. His goal? To help the long-standing publication pivot towards more video-based, engaging content that resonates with modern audiences.

    “The world is changing,” Frankie remarked. “Our attention spans are absolutely in the toilet. Card Player Magazine and I are teaming up to make some very fun content. It’s going to be more video-based, focusing on what’s happening in poker in the most fun and entertaining ways possible.”

    This partnership is a significant move for Card Player, which has been a staple of the poker community for decades. With Frankie’s innovative vision and Card Player’s established reputation, the collaboration is poised to bridge the gap between traditional poker enthusiasts and new players.

    The Power of Content Creation in Poker

    One of the ways Frankie is reaching younger players is by leveraging his skills as a filmmaker. His YouTube channel doesn’t just highlight poker strategy—it’s a full-fledged narrative that combines the drama of competition with glimpses into his personal life.

    Frankie’s content demonstrates how poker is more than a game; it’s a lifestyle. His jet-setting adventures, candid moments, and engaging storytelling showcase the excitement of the poker world in a way that resonates with a tech-savvy audience.

    Some key features of Frankie’s content include:

    • Relatable Narratives: Whether sharing the ups and downs of tournament play or offering a peek into his life as a new father, Frankie’s content feels genuine and personal.
    • Educational Value: His videos provide insights into poker strategy, making them a resource for aspiring players.
    • Entertainment Factor: By combining humour, drama, and high-stakes action, Frankie’s channel keeps viewers hooked.

    This approach has not only earned him a devoted following but also sparked conversations about how poker can adapt to a younger, content-driven audience.

    The Future of Poker’s Growth

    Frankie C’s efforts to “make poker a spectacle” come at a critical time. While the game remains popular, its growth among younger generations has slowed. Platforms like Twitch and YouTube are vital tools for reaching new audiences, and Frankie is at the forefront of using these channels effectively.

    His partnership with Card Player is part of a broader push to modernise poker’s image. By focusing on video content and storytelling, the collaboration seeks to position poker as an exciting, dynamic game for a global audience.

    A recent study highlighted that millennials and Gen Z are more likely to consume video content than any other media form. This trend underscores the importance of Frankie’s work, as he crafts videos that entertain, educate, and inspire a new wave of poker enthusiasts.

    Final Thoughts

    Frankie C is more than just a poker player; he’s a visionary who’s redefining how the game connects with people. His ability to blend high-level play with creative content has already made a significant impact, and his partnership with Card Player is set to amplify that influence.

    As poker continues to evolve, figures like Frankie will play a crucial role in shaping its future. By combining traditional gameplay with modern storytelling, he’s not just bringing poker to new audiences—he’s making it an experience they won’t forget.

  • Borgata Winter Poker Open Ends with a Rare Split as Neiman and Le Share the Spotlight

    Borgata Winter Poker Open Ends with a Rare Split as Neiman and Le Share the Spotlight

    The 2025 Borgata Winter Poker Open wrapped up its $3,500 buy-in no-limit hold’em championship event in dramatic fashion. Joseph Neiman and Nguyen Le made headlines, not just for their remarkable performances but for an uncommon co-championship outcome. In a surprising twist, both players walked away with trophies and big payouts after agreeing to a deal in the final moments.

    A Tale of Two Champions

    Poker tournaments often see deals struck among the final players, but rarely does the winner’s photo include two champions. This was the case when Neiman, a former World Amateur Backgammon Champion, and Le, a rising poker star, decided to split the remaining prize money. The duo negotiated a deal that left Le with the largest payday, $425,000, while Neiman claimed $406,791 and the official title of first-place finisher after winning the final all-in flip.

    Both players left with hardware to mark the occasion, with trophies from the Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa and presenting sponsor BetMGM Poker.

    A High-Stakes Showdown

    The tournament drew 932 entries across two starting flights, surpassing its $2 million guarantee and creating a prize pool of $2,875,255. The top 119 finishers shared in the spoils, and the event culminated with six skilled contenders battling it out on the final day.

    Nguyen Le entered the last stretch as the chip leader, while Neiman started in third position. Salvatore Evola, the first to exit, earned a career-best $82,033 for sixth place after his A-Q couldn’t hold against Dorian Rios’ A-10.

    Rios later fell in fifth place for $105,691 when his A-J lost to Clemen Deng’s A-Q suited, despite briefly taking the lead on a jack-high flop. Deng maintained momentum, eliminating Philip Saracino (4th – $153,430) with pocket aces.

    Deng’s Fall Sets the Stage

    As play narrowed to three, Deng’s chip lead dwindled. His tournament ended in third place, earning $233,882, after his A♠7♣ couldn’t overcome Neiman’s A♣J♣. With that, the final duel began.

    Neiman started heads-up play with a significant chip advantage, but the balance shifted as both players traded leads. After intense back-and-forth action, they decided on a deal that would mark the end of the tournament in an extraordinary way.

    The Bigger Picture: POY Points and More

    While Le took the larger payout, Neiman earned 1,368 Player of the Year (POY) points, putting him at the top of the 2025 standings presented by Global Poker. Le sits just behind him with 1,340 points after adding 1,140 points from this event to his tally.

    Notable players also made deep runs, including Kitty Kuo (8th – $51,919), Ryan Depaulo (9th – $41,315), and Darren Elias (18th), among others. Their presence highlighted the calibre of the competition.

    Final Table Payouts and POY Points

    Here’s a breakdown of the final table results:

    Place Player Earnings POY Points
    1 Joseph Neiman $406,791 1,368
    2 Nguyen Le $425,000 1,140
    3 Clemen Deng $233,882 912
    4 Philip Saracino $153,430 684
    5 Dorian Rios $105,691 570
    6 Salvatore Evola $82,033 456
    7 Tom McNicholas $65,053 342
    8 Kitty Kuo $51,919 228
    9 Ryan Depaulo $41,315 114

    A Moment to Remember

    The unusual conclusion to this high-stakes poker tournament will undoubtedly go down in history. Both Neiman and Le showcased exceptional skill and sportsmanship, proving that poker is as much about strategy as it is about adaptability. For those in Atlantic City that week, it was a tournament to remember, not just for the payouts but for the way the game brought people together in an unexpected and thrilling way.

  • Jeremy Ausmus Wins PokerGO Tour $1,000,000 Championship and Player of the Year Honors

    Jeremy Ausmus Wins PokerGO Tour $1,000,000 Championship and Player of the Year Honors

  • Yunkyu Song Crowned Season 22 World Poker Tour Player of the Year

    Yunkyu Song Crowned Season 22 World Poker Tour Player of the Year

    Yunkyu Song has officially etched his name into poker history by becoming the Season 22 World Poker Tour (WPT) Player of the Year. His remarkable achievements in 2024, including five cashes, three final-table appearances, and one championship win, have solidified his place among the top poker talents on the global stage.

    A Year of Consistent Excellence

    The 25-year-old South Korean-born player, who grew up in Washington state, showcased an extraordinary mix of skill and determination throughout the season. Song’s most notable moment came in October when he secured his first major live circuit title at the WPT Prime Playground championship near Montreal. The victory earned him $164,251, a significant portion of his career earnings, which now stand at nearly $1.5 million.

    But that was only the tip of the iceberg for Song in 2024. His largest payout came just a month later at the WPT bestbet Scramble $5,000 buy-in main event. Song navigated through a competitive field of 361 entries, finishing as the runner-up and pocketing a career-high $252,059. Earlier in the year, he also claimed fourth place at the WPT Rolling Thunder main event in March, adding $105,000 to his winnings. These three events alone cemented his reputation as one of the brightest stars in the poker scene.

    A Close Race for POY Honors

    The race for the Player of the Year title wasn’t without competition. Song’s final tally of 2,275 POY points narrowly edged out Dylan Smith, who finished with 2,150 points. Smith also had a stellar season, highlighted by four cashes and two final-table appearances. His victory at the Seminole Rock ‘N’ Roll Poker main event in November—where Song also cashed—helped him stay within striking distance of the title.

    “It is amazing to see the ledger of Yunkyu’s accomplishments throughout the year, earning points in so many different events across North America,” said WPT CEO Adam Pliska. The recognition from Pliska underscores how Song’s diverse performances across tournaments exemplify the tenacity required to achieve the top honour.

    • WPT Prime Playground Championship: 1st place, $164,251
    • WPT bestbet Scramble: 2nd place, $252,059
    • WPT Rolling Thunder: 4th place, $105,000
    • Other Finishes:
      • 50th at WPT Prime Voyage
      • 145th at Seminole Rock ‘N’ Roll Poker

    Prizes for Excellence

    As part of his Player of the Year winnings, Song received $15,000 in WPT Passports, a reward that can be used for entry into future WPT events. Dylan Smith earned $10,000 for his runner-up performance, while Eric Afriat, a three-time WPT champion, took home $5,000 after finishing third in the standings with 1,750 points.

    For Song, the WPT POY title is both an accolade and a stepping stone. With the 2024 season wrapped up, his momentum is expected to carry into the upcoming season, where he will undoubtedly aim for even greater success.

    Looking Ahead to Season 23

    The WPT has announced that Season 23 will kick off in February after a break in January. The tour will resume in Cambodia, offering players new opportunities to shine. Key events include:

    • WPT Prime Cambodia ($1,100 buy-in): Feb. 14–18
    • WPT Cambodia Main Event ($3,500 buy-in): Feb. 19–24

    The fresh season promises to bring another wave of thrilling poker action, with top contenders like Song looking to defend their titles or set new records.

    More POY Winners Across the Poker Scene

    Yunkyu Song wasn’t the only player to celebrate a Player of the Year title in 2024. The Mid-States Poker Tour (MSPT) awarded its POY title to Umut Ozturk for the second consecutive year. Ozturk broke his own record with 19 cashes in a single season, a testament to his consistency and dedication.

    With 6,825 points, Ozturk dominated the MSPT standings, leaving 2022 POY winner Joshua Reichard in second place with 5,425 points from 12 cashes. Ozturk’s success came down to a remarkable finish, with two final tables in December securing his place at the top.

  • Brandon Wilson Secures Back-to-Back Wins at PGT Last Chance Series

    Brandon Wilson Secures Back-to-Back Wins at PGT Last Chance Series

    In a display of sheer skill and determination, Brandon Wilson has won two consecutive PokerGO Tour (PGT) Last Chance events, amassing nearly $600,000 in winnings in just two days. The Illinois native triumphed in back-to-back $10,100 buy-in tournaments at the PokerGO Studio in Las Vegas, solidifying his place as a force to be reckoned with in high-stakes poker.

    A Streak Worth Millions

    Wilson’s latest victories have pushed his career earnings past $3.9 million. With six high-stakes titles since August 2023, he is making waves in the poker world. His latest win came after topping 114 entries in Event No. 4, netting him $285,000. This followed his $297,500 victory in Event No. 3, which saw him overcome 119 competitors.

    The consecutive wins also catapulted Wilson to the top of the 2025 Player of the Year (POY) leaderboard. His $582,500 in POY earnings and 1,200 points are unmatched, setting the pace for the early part of the season.

    Final Table Drama: Event No. 4 Highlights

    Event No. 4’s final table was packed with intense action and dramatic eliminations. The field of 114 generated a prize pool of $1,140,000, with payouts distributed among the top 17 finishers. Only seven players advanced to Day 2, with Wilson leading the charge.

    • Stoyan Madanzhiev (7th, $45,600): The 2020 WSOP Online Main Event champion was the first to exit after losing a race with pocket fives to Sam Laskowitz’s suited A-6, which turned into a nut flush.
    • Sam Laskowitz (6th, $57,000): Laskowitz’s pocket jacks fell to Byron Kaverman’s pocket aces in a preflop clash. The hand also left Kristina Holst crippled, as she folded to the all-in action after committing most of her stack.
    • Kristina Holst (5th, $74,100): Despite an early double-up, Holst couldn’t recover after losing with A-10 to Kaverman’s K-7, with a king-high board sealing her fate.

    Intense Heads-Up Battle

    The heads-up showdown between Wilson and six-time bracelet winner Jeremy Ausmus was a nail-biter. A critical hand saw Wilson call a massive bluff by Ausmus on the river, leaving Ausmus with just a fraction of the chips. Wilson’s pocket tens held strong, and moments later, his 5♣3♣ outdrew Ausmus’ 6♦3♦ for the victory. Ausmus walked away with $176,700 for his runner-up finish.

    Dominance in Numbers

    Here’s a breakdown of the final table results, including earnings and leaderboard points:

    Place Player Earnings POY Points PGT Points
    1 Brandon Wilson $285,000 600 285
    2 Jeremy Ausmus $176,700 500 177
    3 Byron Kaverman $125,400 400 125
    4 Dylan Linde $96,900 300 97
    5 Kristina Holst $74,100 250 74
    6 Sam Laskowitz $57,000 200 57
    7 Stoyan Madanzhiev $45,600 150 46

    Wilson’s Place in Poker History

    With these victories, Wilson not only dominates the current series but also makes a strong case for himself in the high-stakes poker circuit. His consistent performances have earned him recognition and respect among the elite, and his ranking in the PGT leaderboard continues to rise.

    After securing 285 PGT points, Wilson now sits in 57th place on the season-long leaderboard. While he has ground to cover to challenge the top players, his recent form suggests he could be a contender.

  • Eight Winners Share $14.3 Million in Circa Survivor NFL Contest

    Eight Winners Share $14.3 Million in Circa Survivor NFL Contest

    The Circa Sports NFL handicapping contests concluded with a dramatic finale, awarding a record-breaking $20.3 million in prize money. Eight savvy participants in the Circa Survivor competition emerged victorious, sharing a whopping $14.3 million, while strategic bets and nail-biting finishes defined the closing weekend.

    A Historic Payday for NFL Handicappers

    Circa Survivor, with its $1,000 entry fee, has become a hallmark of high-stakes sports betting. This year, the competition saw an unprecedented prize pool of $14.3 million, split equally among eight winners. Each participant achieved a flawless 20-0 record, securing $1,783,250 apiece.

    The final week of play was nothing short of a rollercoaster. Tampa Bay, Indianapolis, and Arizona emerged as key teams for the winners, delivering critical victories. Tampa Bay’s second-half comeback over New Orleans was pivotal, while Indianapolis edged past Jacksonville in a tense overtime finish. Arizona cruised to an easy win, giving one winner a relatively stress-free weekend.

    However, the competition wasn’t without heartbreak. Green Bay and Atlanta, popular picks among other contestants, suffered last-minute losses, ending the hopes of many.

    Triumphs and Tribulations of the Winners

    For some winners, the contest was more than just a betting challenge—it was a life-altering experience. The “Meatball Brothers,” a team of six friends with a background in meat sales, were among those celebrating the windfall.

    “Honestly, for the last two weeks, we’ve slept maybe two hours a night,” said Paul Czyz, a 55-year-old team member. His teammate Carson Williams called it “the best 20 weeks of my life,” placing it just behind his wedding and the birth of his children.

    The Meatball Brothers, who relied on the Colts in the final week, also hedged their bets with a wager on Jacksonville, ensuring a six-figure safety net in case of an upset.

    Another notable story came from Harvard graduates Brian Wood and Zheng Fan, who chose Tampa Bay in the final week. Despite a shaky first half, the Buccaneers pulled off the win, much to the relief of Wood, who admitted to moments of panic during the game. “At halftime, we were throwing up,” he confessed.

    Circa Million VI: A Competitive Finish

    The excitement wasn’t limited to the Survivor contest. The Circa Million VI also concluded with “Team BP” claiming the $1 million top prize. The team clinched victory with a 60-26-4 record, edging out their nearest competitor by just half a point.

    The final standings also decided the contest’s infamous “booby prize,” awarded to the participant with the worst record. “The Brown Clown” took home $100,000 for finishing 27-61-2—a humorous nod to the ups and downs of sports betting.

    Final Week Drama: Upsets and Unexpected Outcomes

    The season finale highlighted the unpredictable nature of the NFL. While winners celebrated their triumphs, others faced bitter disappointment. Green Bay’s last-second loss to Chicago dashed the dreams of two contestants, marking the first time in Circa Survivor history that multiple entries failed in the final week. Atlanta, another popular pick, fell in overtime to Carolina, ending their season on a sour note.

    Key stats from the final week:

    • Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Staged a 16-point comeback against New Orleans.
    • Indianapolis Colts: Defeated Jacksonville 26-23 in overtime.
    • Arizona Cardinals: Delivered a decisive 47-24 victory over San Francisco.
    • Green Bay Packers: Lost 24-22 to Chicago on a last-second field goal.
    • Atlanta Falcons: Suffered a 21-18 overtime loss to Carolina.

    Looking Ahead: Circa’s Legacy in Sports Betting

    The Circa Sports contests have cemented their reputation as a premier platform for NFL betting enthusiasts. With massive prize pools, high-stakes drama, and compelling human stories, these competitions continue to attract a mix of seasoned bettors and newcomers.

    As the winners celebrate their life-changing payouts, many are already looking forward to next year’s contests, where new strategies and rivalries will undoubtedly take centre stage.

  • Countdown: 2024 Player of the Year – Top Poker Tournament Performers

    Countdown: 2024 Player of the Year – Top Poker Tournament Performers

    As 2024 comes to a close, the race for the coveted Card Player Player of the Year (POY) title has officially concluded. The year has been a thrilling ride, with countless high-stakes tournaments showcasing poker’s brightest stars. Today, we highlight the players who ranked 10th through 6th in the POY standings, presented by Global Poker. Collectively, these top performers amassed over $27.2 million in earnings, graced 110 final tables, and claimed 18 titles.

    This article sets the stage for the upcoming reveal of the fifth through second spots, culminating in the announcement of the 2024 Player of the Year.

    Stephen Chidwick: A Model of Consistency

    Total Points: 6,229
    POY Earnings: $5,686,359
    Titles: 5
    Final Tables: 20

    Stephen Chidwick’s 2024 performance cemented his place as one of poker’s all-time greats. The 35-year-old from Deal, England, has an illustrious record, having finished in the top 50 for 11 of the last 12 years. This year was no different, as he made an impressive 20 POY-qualified final tables and won five titles.

    Key Wins and Milestones

    Chidwick’s crowning achievement in 2024 was his victory in the $50,000 pot-limit Omaha event at the World Series of Poker (WSOP) Paradise festival in December. Outlasting 122 entrants, he took home $1,357,080 and his second career gold bracelet.

    He also made waves at the Triton Monte Carlo series, where he finished fifth in the $150,000 buy-in event, pocketing $1.3 million. These results added to his staggering tally of 13 seven-figure scores across his career.

    Breaking Records

    Chidwick’s consistency is unrivalled. This year marked the fifth time in the last decade that he reached at least 20 final tables. With total career earnings now exceeding $63.6 million, he ranks as the third highest-earning player in poker tournament history.

    Tournament Earnings and Achievements at a Glance

    To put Chidwick’s 2024 in perspective, here’s a snapshot of his performance:

    Category Statistic
    Total POY Points 6,229
    POY Earnings $5,686,359
    Total Final Tables 20
    Titles Secured 5
    Largest Single Win (2024) $1,357,080
    Career Tournament Earnings $63,600,000+

    Why It Matters

    Stephen Chidwick’s career is a testament to skill, determination, and longevity in a game where variance can often derail even the most talented players. With his five titles and consistent top-tier finishes, Chidwick has set a benchmark for poker greatness.

    Stay tuned as we uncover the names filling the fifth through second spots in the POY rankings, followed by the highly anticipated reveal of 2024’s Player of the Year.

  • Michael Kaplan: Crossing Paths with Mike Matusow and the Tale That Never Saw Print

    Michael Kaplan: Crossing Paths with Mike Matusow and the Tale That Never Saw Print

  • PokerGO Tour Last Chance Series: A Final Shot at Glory

    PokerGO Tour Last Chance Series: A Final Shot at Glory

    The PokerGO Tour (PGT) is setting the stage for its climactic end-of-year spectacle with the Last Chance Series, kicking off Thursday. This high-stakes series offers players one final opportunity to secure their spot in the million-dollar PGT Championship while showcasing their prowess in the competitive poker scene.

    Tim Duckworth, Director of Live Events for PokerGO, expressed excitement for the series, saying, “With high stakes on the line and additional Dream Seat entries available, this series gives everyone a shot.”

    Let’s dive into what makes this series a must-watch and a critical moment for poker enthusiasts and players alike.

    The Format: Six Events, High Stakes

    The Last Chance Series comprises six no-limit hold’em tournaments, each with a $10,100 buy-in. The structure offers participants ample opportunities to climb the leaderboard and claim one of the coveted top 40 spots in the season-long PGT rankings.

    But there’s a catch: simply earning a top-40 rank isn’t enough. Players also need at least three qualifying cashes to secure their seat in the million-dollar freeroll PGT Championship.

    The series isn’t just about the leaderboard, though. A unique points-based system offers additional opportunities for standout players, regardless of their season-long ranking.

    Notable Players on the Brink

    Several big names are currently fighting to stay in contention—or break into—the PGT Championship’s elite top 40. Among them are reigning World Series of Poker Main Event champion Jonathan Tamayo and prominent players like Brian Kim, Niklas Astedt, and Jason Sagle, all of whom have fewer than the required three qualifying cashes.

    Meanwhile, stars like Matthew Wantman, Isaac Haxton, and Sergio Aido are just outside the bubble and could capitalize if others fall short.

    It’s a high-pressure scenario: fail to meet the criteria, and even some of the year’s most consistent players could see their Championship dreams dashed.

    Dream Seats and the Invitational

    For those who don’t make the top 40, all is not lost. The Last Chance Series includes a unique feature: three “Dream Seat” entries awarded to players who excel in the series leaderboard but fall short of the season-long cutoff.

    Additionally, players who finish fourth through eighth in the Last Chance points race will receive “Dream Passes.” These passes grant entry to the PGT Championship Dream Seat Invitational, a single-day event on January 9.

    The stakes in this invitational couldn’t be higher: the final six players will secure entries into the PGT $1,000,000 Championship, set to begin the very next day.

    Schedule Breakdown

    Here’s a quick look at the Last Chance Series schedule, which promises daily drama and excitement:

    Event Start Date Days Buy-In
    PGT Last Chance #1 – $10,100 NLHE Jan 2 2 $10,100
    PGT Last Chance #2 – $10,100 NLHE Jan 3 2 $10,100
    PGT Last Chance #3 – $10,100 NLHE Jan 4 2 $10,100
    PGT Last Chance #4 – $10,100 NLHE Jan 6 2 $10,100
    PGT Last Chance #5 – $10,100 NLHE Jan 7 2 $10,100
    PGT Last Chance #6 – $10,100 NLHE Jan 8 2 $10,100
    PGT Championship Dream Seat Invitational Jan 9 1 $0

    Each event promises intense competition, with players vying not only for payouts but also for points that could alter the season standings dramatically.

    The Road to the Million-Dollar Championship

    The PGT $1,000,000 Championship begins on January 10, featuring a two-day freeroll event with a seven-figure prize pool. Starting stacks will be determined by PGT leaderboard rankings, giving top players a clear advantage heading into this high-stakes finale.

    Only the top six players will cash in the Championship, with the winner set to claim $500,000. For many, this represents not just a financial reward but a career-defining moment.

    The Last Chance Series is more than just a poker tournament—it’s a battleground for glory, redemption, and one final shot at making history. With the stakes so high, expect nothing less than electrifying action from start to finish.

  • Francis Anderson Wins Final Multi-Flight Poker Tournament of 2024

    Francis Anderson Wins Final Multi-Flight Poker Tournament of 2024

    In a thrilling conclusion to 2024, Francis Anderson claimed victory in the Venetian New Year’s Extravaganza $800 No-Limit Hold’em UltimateStack tournament. The bracelet winner from Wappinger Falls, New York, outlasted a field of 515 players, securing $61,551 in prize money. This marked Anderson’s sixth tournament win and bolstered his reputation as a top competitor in poker.

    A Year of Milestones for Anderson

    Anderson’s 2024 poker journey has been nothing short of remarkable. Earlier this year, he captured his first World Series of Poker bracelet in the $800 Independence Day Celebration Event, taking home $501,040—a career-best score. His ability to excel in holiday-themed events has become a hallmark of his career, making him a formidable contender in these unique tournaments.

    This latest win also brought Anderson’s lifetime tournament earnings to more than $3.6 million. Alongside his financial success, Anderson added 420 Card Player Player of the Year (POY) points, bringing his annual total to 2,772. With three titles and nine final-table finishes, Anderson will end the year ranked within the top 130 in the POY standings, cementing his status as one of the game’s elite players.

    The Competition at the Final Table

    The $800 buy-in event attracted a diverse and competitive field, with a total prize pool of $355,350. The top 66 finishers walked away with a share of the spoils, but the final table was where the real action unfolded.

    Notable players included:

    • Terry Fleischer: The 2024 Mid-States Poker Tour Venetian Poker Bowl champion finished in 8th place.
    • Aaron Massey: The seasoned pro claimed 6th place.
    • Ryan Laplante: The bracelet winner and accomplished player added another feather to his cap by finishing 4th.

    Laplante, who had already secured a significant score of $185,500 earlier in December, now edges closer to $4 million in recorded tournament earnings.

    A Dramatic Heads-Up Showdown

    After an anonymous third-place finisher exited, Anderson faced Lokesh Garg in a riveting heads-up battle. Garg entered with a chip advantage, but Anderson quickly turned the tables.

    The pivotal moment came when Anderson made a flush, besting Garg’s jack-high straight. In the final hand, the board showed A♣ Q♠ 9♥ 9♣ J♣, and Garg held 10♥ 8♣ for a straight. However, Anderson revealed J♠ 9♠, giving him a full house and the championship. Garg walked away with $44,245 as the runner-up.

    Final Table Payouts and POY Points

    Here’s how the final table payouts and POY points were distributed:

    Place Player Earnings ($) POY Points
    1 Francis Anderson 61,551 420
    2 Lokesh Garg 44,245 350
    3 Anonymous 32,015 280
    4 Ryan Laplante 23,455 210
    5 Alex Perez 17,300 175
    6 Aaron Massey 12,800 140
    7 Chris Mohr 9,615 105
    8 Terry Fleischer 7,355 70
    9 Max Zhang 5,685 35

    With this win, Anderson adds yet another chapter to an already stellar year, proving once again that he’s one of poker’s most consistent and talented players.