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  • 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

  • Vietnam Suspends Local Gambling Trial at Phu Quoc’s Corona Resort

    Vietnam Suspends Local Gambling Trial at Phu Quoc’s Corona Resort

    Vietnam’s groundbreaking pilot program allowing its citizens to gamble at the Corona Resort & Casino on Phu Quoc Island has officially ended. The initiative, which began in 2019, was halted on December 31, 2024, with the suspension taking effect from midnight on January 1, 2025. The government has provided no timeline for its reinstatement.

    A First for Vietnamese Gamblers

    This trial marked a historic shift in Vietnam’s stance on gambling. Previously, locals were barred from casinos, which catered exclusively to foreign visitors. Under the pilot, Vietnamese citizens could gamble provided they met stringent criteria, including a minimum monthly income of VND10 million ($400) and payment of entry fees set at VND1 million ($25) per day or VND25 million per month.

    The program aimed to assess whether legalizing local participation could help curb gambling tourism abroad and boost domestic economic growth. Initially set to conclude in 2022, the pilot was extended due to the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

    • Entry requirements included proof of income and payment of fees.
    • Corona Resort & Casino was the only venue authorized for local participation.
    • The program was seen as a potential solution to Vietnam’s outbound gambling activities.

    Financial Struggles Despite Growing Tourism

    While the trial had its merits, it didn’t come without challenges. Corona Resort & Casino reported significant financial losses of VND300 billion ($12.7 million) in the first half of 2024. High operational costs, including depreciation and interest expenses, were compounded by a drop in local participants, contributing to these struggles.

    However, the broader tourism landscape in Phu Quoc tells a different story. The island saw a sharp rise in visitors, hitting 6 million in 2024—a 49% increase compared to 2019. With substantial investments of VND388.41 trillion in its tourism infrastructure and favourable visa policies, Phu Quoc has emerged as a global travel hotspot. Esteemed publications like Travel+Leisure and Condé Nast Traveler have spotlighted it as a top destination for 2025.

    A single paragraph here highlights Phu Quoc’s resilience, despite the casino’s financial issues.

    The Future of Local Gambling in Vietnam

    The conclusion of this pilot program has left the future of local participation in Vietnam’s casino industry in limbo. A second venue in Van Don, which was approved under the program, remains unopened. This has raised questions about whether the government will pursue similar initiatives or focus solely on foreign patrons in the long term.

    The suspension doesn’t affect foreign visitors, including Vietnamese nationals holding foreign passports, who remain eligible to gamble at the resort.

    Challenges and Considerations:

    • Will the government explore alternative approaches to integrating locals into casino operations?
    • How might economic pressures influence future policy decisions?

    Optimism Amid Uncertainty

    Despite the suspension, Corona Resort & Casino remains optimistic about the potential reinstatement of the program. In a statement, the casino expressed gratitude to its customers and hope for the future. “We firmly believe that, with proper adjustments, we will soon resume operations to serve our valued customers and partners,” the resort noted.

    The casino’s commitment reflects broader optimism about the potential for casino gambling to play a role in Vietnam’s economic strategy. Whether through reintroducing the program or developing new models, the industry’s path forward will be closely watched.

  • Blackjack Player Sues Horseshoe Baltimore and Caesars Entertainment for $3 Million Over Alleged Unlawful Detention

    Blackjack Player Sues Horseshoe Baltimore and Caesars Entertainment for $3 Million Over Alleged Unlawful Detention

  • Building a Thriving Gaming Company in Costa Rica: A Step-by-Step Guide

    Building a Thriving Gaming Company in Costa Rica: A Step-by-Step Guide

    Costa Rica has carved out a reputation as a sought-after location for online gaming businesses. With its favourable regulatory framework, low operational costs, and access to global markets, it’s no surprise that entrepreneurs are flocking to this Central American hotspot. But what does it take to set up a successful gaming company here? Industry expert Ron Mendelson, in collaboration with Fast Offshore, lays out the essential steps.

    Understanding Costa Rica’s Legal Framework for Gaming

    Costa Rica’s approach to online gaming regulation is unique. Unlike jurisdictions with specific gaming licenses, the country allows companies to operate under a “data processing” license.

    • No Local Market Access: Companies are prohibited from targeting Costa Rican residents. Operations must strictly focus on offshore clients.
    • Legal Consultation is Crucial: Engage with local legal professionals to ensure your business complies with Costa Rican laws and international gaming standards.
    • Regulatory Simplicity: This framework offers significant flexibility but demands adherence to local norms to avoid penalties.

    For entrepreneurs, this legal setup creates opportunities for innovation while ensuring regulatory boundaries are respected.

    Establishing a Corporate Structure

    To operate legally in Costa Rica, setting up a corporate entity is non-negotiable. The process involves several steps that are best managed with expert guidance.

    1. Register Your Business: File the necessary documents with the National Registry.
    2. Tax Compliance: Obtain a corporate tax number and register with the local tax office.
    3. Banking Requirements: Open a corporate bank account to handle transactions.
    4. Data Processing License: Secure this essential license to legitimise your gaming operations.

    Pro Tip: Collaborating with a service provider like Fast Offshore simplifies these steps, ensuring a smooth and compliant setup.

    Crafting a Comprehensive Business Plan

    A business plan acts as your company’s blueprint. It should be detailed, clear, and actionable.

    Key Components to Include:

    • Market Research: Analyse global markets and competitors to position your brand effectively.
    • Platform Development: Partner with reliable software providers who can meet your technical demands.
    • Revenue Strategy: Define how your company will generate income, be it through subscriptions, ads, or fees.
    • Marketing Plan: Use SEO, social media, and affiliate programs to attract and retain players.

    A well-thought-out plan can differentiate your company in a competitive market.

    Investing in Reliable Technology

    Technology is the backbone of any gaming operation. Without robust systems, businesses risk downtime, security breaches, and player dissatisfaction.

    • User Experience: Platforms must be intuitive and mobile-friendly.
    • Security Measures: Implement encryption and fraud detection to protect user data.
    • Payment Systems: Offer multiple payment gateways to cater to a global audience.
    • Scalability: Choose software that can grow with your business.

    Focusing on technology ensures a seamless and secure experience for your players, which builds long-term loyalty.

    Responsible Gaming and Compliance

    While Costa Rica’s regulations are flexible, global standards for responsible gaming are stricter. Companies must proactively adopt measures to safeguard their users.

    • Betting Limits: Allow players to set spending caps.
    • Age Verification: Ensure only legal-age users can access your platform.
    • Transparency: Clearly outline terms and conditions.

    Adopting responsible gaming practices not only enhances your reputation but also protects your business from regulatory risks in international markets.

    Building a Skilled Team

    Your workforce is the heart of your company. Hiring the right people can make or break your business.

    • Developers: Build and maintain your gaming platform.
    • Marketing Experts: Drive brand awareness and player acquisition.
    • Customer Support: Address player concerns swiftly.
    • Compliance Officers: Navigate the regulatory landscape effectively.

    Costa Rica’s skilled local workforce, combined with remote hiring for specialised roles, provides ample talent to support your operations.

    Leveraging Costa Rica’s Business Advantages

    Costa Rica isn’t just a good choice for legal reasons—it offers several operational benefits as well.

    Advantage Details
    Low Costs Affordable compared to jurisdictions like Malta.
    Political Stability A safe environment for long-term investments.
    Time Zone Alignment Convenient for North and South American markets.

    These factors make Costa Rica a practical and strategic location for gaming startups and established businesses alike.

    Collaborating with Fast Offshore

    Setting up a gaming company in Costa Rica might seem overwhelming, but Fast Offshore simplifies the process.

    • End-to-End Support: From registration to compliance, they cover it all.
    • Tailored Expertise: Decades of experience in gaming make their insights invaluable.
    • Global Connections: Access to top-notch software vendors, payment providers, and legal advisors.

    With Fast Offshore, you gain a trusted partner to navigate the intricacies of launching and running your business.

    Marketing for a Successful Launch

    Your platform may be ready, but success depends on effective marketing. A strategic approach can ensure your gaming company stands out.

    Tips for Effective Marketing:

    • SEO Optimisation: Rank higher on search engines to attract organic traffic.
    • Social Media Engagement: Use platforms like Facebook and Instagram to connect with players.
    • Affiliate Partnerships: Collaborate with influencers and affiliates to expand reach.
    • Loyalty Programs: Reward returning players with bonuses and promotions.

    A strong marketing strategy ensures sustained growth and player retention.

  • MLB Players’ Union Challenges DraftKings, Bet365 Over Improper Use of Player Likenesses

    MLB Players’ Union Challenges DraftKings, Bet365 Over Improper Use of Player Likenesses

    The Major League Baseball Players Association (MLBPA) is doubling down on its legal challenge against sports betting titans DraftKings and bet365. The union has pushed back against claims that the companies were within their rights to use player images in advertisements and apps under the guise of free speech and press protections. MLB Players Inc. (MLBPI), representing the union’s commercial interests, argues that these companies aren’t news organisations and therefore lack the protections they claim.

    Pennsylvania Fair Use Statute: A Key Battleground

    The dispute hinges on Pennsylvania’s fair use statute, which the MLBPI contends doesn’t support the operators’ arguments. The statute references “news reports” or “news presentations,” terms that MLBPI argues don’t apply to gambling companies promoting their services. In their motions to dismiss, both DraftKings and bet365 cited precedents involving fantasy sports that upheld the newsworthiness of player statistics and images.

    However, the union swiftly countered, saying the cited cases occurred outside Pennsylvania and are irrelevant under the state’s specific laws. The argument has raised the stakes, as a decision here could set a precedent that extends beyond sports betting and player rights.

    Protecting Players’ Rights

    The MLBPA’s lawsuit not only aims to enforce licensing agreements but also highlights the broader implications of unlicensed use of player images. The union asserts that the operators used players’ likenesses without permission, effectively commercialising them without compensation.

    A significant point of contention is the standing of MLBPI in the lawsuit. Critics argue that the organisation lacks direct harm, but the union maintains it is acting on behalf of its members, whose rights are directly impacted. According to a report by SBC Americas, the MLBPA insists it has a fiduciary responsibility to protect player interests, solidifying its role in the litigation.

    DraftKings and bet365’s Defence Strategy

    DraftKings and bet365 have built their defence on legal precedents involving fantasy sports. They argue that player statistics and images are integral to their operations and should be treated as newsworthy content. However, the MLBPA challenges this logic, particularly in a commercial context where player likenesses are used to attract customers rather than inform them.

    The companies’ strategy also leans heavily on broader First Amendment protections, but the MLBPA’s argument that gambling apps and advertisements do not qualify as “news reports” could undermine this defence. Legal analysts are closely watching how Pennsylvania’s courts interpret these nuances.

    The Broader Implications of Licensing Deals

    This case isn’t the only one addressing the misuse of player likenesses. In a parallel lawsuit in the Southern District of New York, Underdog Sports faces allegations of improper use of MLB player images. FanDuel, originally a co-defendant in that case, was dropped after securing a licensing agreement with MLBPI in late 2024.

    This trend signals an increasing need for clarity in licensing agreements as the sports betting industry grows. Licensing deals like FanDuel’s not only protect companies from lawsuits but also strengthen their brand credibility. The outcomes of these lawsuits could serve as a blueprint for future negotiations between sports organisations and betting companies.

    What’s at Stake for MLB Players and Operators?

    The stakes in these legal battles extend far beyond financial settlements. For players, the cases represent a fight for control over their images in a world where sports and betting are increasingly intertwined. For operators, a loss could mean significant changes to how they market their platforms and interact with player data.

    The growing tension between the sports industry and betting operators underscores the need for clear legal guidelines. Whether Pennsylvania’s courts side with MLBPI or the betting giants, the ripple effects will likely reshape the future of sports marketing and licensing agreements.

  • Virginia Breaks Sports Betting Records in November: A Banner Month for Revenue and Handle

    Virginia Breaks Sports Betting Records in November: A Banner Month for Revenue and Handle

    Virginia’s sports betting industry reached unprecedented heights in November, smashing records for both revenue and betting handle. The latest data from the Virginia Lottery paints a vivid picture of a state embracing sports wagering with remarkable enthusiasm and profitability.

    A Historic Surge in Revenue

    November saw Virginia’s gross sports betting revenue soar to $80.6 million, a figure that dwarfs November 2023’s earnings by an impressive 121.4%. It also stands 64.5% higher than the previous month, October 2024. This surge eclipses the earlier adjusted gross revenue (AGR) record of $67.5 million, set in January 2024, by a substantial 19.4%.

    Interestingly, nearly all AGR—$79.9 million—originated from online betting platforms. Traditional retail sportsbooks contributed a modest $666,689, highlighting the dominance of mobile and online betting in the state.

    Handle Hits New Heights

    November’s sports wagering handle climbed to an all-time high of $761 million. This is the second consecutive month Virginia has set a new record, breaking October’s $696.1 million mark by 9.3%. It’s also the first time the state surpassed the $700 million milestone in a single month.

    • Online bets: $756.8 million
    • Retail bets: $4.2 million

    Players reaped $674.6 million in winnings, leaving sportsbooks with a hold rate of 10.60%, a healthy margin reflecting both player interest and operator efficiency.

    Record-Breaking Tax Revenue

    The surge in activity also meant a windfall for the state, which collected an all-time high of $12.1 million in sports betting taxes. Of this, $11.8 million was channelled into the General Fund Allocation, supporting essential public services. Another $302,529 went to the Problem Gambling Treatment and Support Fund Allocation, demonstrating the state’s commitment to responsible gambling initiatives.

    Virginia’s sports betting tax rate of 15% on adjusted gross revenue has proven to be a robust revenue generator. The previous monthly high for tax revenue was January 2024, with $9.9 million collected—a mark November comfortably surpassed.

    A Snapshot of Monthly Growth

    The figures underline a year of rapid growth for Virginia’s sports betting industry, particularly in November 2024:

    Metric November 2024 October 2024 November 2023 % Change (YoY)
    Gross Revenue $80.6 million $49 million $36.4 million +121.4%
    Handle $761 million $696.1 million $638.8 million +19.1%
    Taxes Collected $12.1 million $9.9 million $7.2 million +68.1%

    Online Betting Takes the Lead

    One standout trend is the dominance of online betting. Of the $761 million total handle, $756.8 million came from online platforms, a staggering 99.45%. Retail betting at land-based casinos accounted for a mere $4.2 million. This shift underscores the convenience and accessibility of mobile betting apps, which continue to outpace their brick-and-mortar counterparts.

    Implications for the Industry

    Virginia’s sports betting boom has implications that extend beyond its borders. The state’s success story could influence other regions considering the expansion of gambling legislation. The record-setting numbers also highlight the potential for robust tax revenues, which can fund state programs and services.

    The Problem Gambling Treatment and Support Fund Allocation’s growth indicates a responsible approach to addressing gambling addiction risks. By earmarking funds for prevention and treatment, Virginia ensures its gambling industry operates with public welfare in mind.

  • 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.

  • PokerStars Unveils the PokerStars Open: A New Chapter in Live Tournaments

    PokerStars Unveils the PokerStars Open: A New Chapter in Live Tournaments

    PokerStars is raising the stakes for European poker players with the announcement of a brand-new tournament series, the PokerStars Open. This bold move follows the cancellation of the European Poker Tour (EPT) Paris and speculation about the future of EPT Prague, offering players an exciting new opportunity to compete across Europe.

    A Fresh Deal for European Poker

    The PokerStars Open, set to debut in 2025, will consist of six major stops, including three brand-new destinations. These stops replace a number of established tours like the UK and Ireland Poker Tour (UKIPT), Eureka Poker Tour, Estrellas Poker Tour (ESPT), and France Poker Series (FPS). By consolidating these events into a single series, PokerStars aims to create a unified and more flexible calendar that caters to players’ growing appetite for international competition.

    The tournament series will feature €1,100/£1,100 main events with an impressive €1M/£1M guaranteed prize pool at each stop, ensuring high stakes and intense competition.

    The Stops and Highlights

    The 2025 PokerStars Open schedule includes six confirmed stops, each promising unique experiences and top-tier poker action:

    1. PokerStars Open Campione
      • Location: Casino Municipale, Campione, Italy
      • Dates: March 10–16
    2. The Irish Open
      • Location: The Royal Dublin Society, Dublin, Republic of Ireland
      • Dates: April 10–21
      • Highlight: The 45th edition of this iconic tournament.
    3. PokerStars Open Namur
      • Location: Circus Casino Resort, Namur, Belgium
      • Dates: May 28–June 9
    4. PokerStars Open Malaga
      • Location: Gran Madrid Casino Torrequebrada, Malaga, Spain
      • Dates: June 16–22
    5. PokerStars Open Manchester
      • Location: Casino Manchester235, Manchester, UK
      • Dates: October 20–26
    6. PokerStars Open Cannes
      • Location: Casino Barriere Le Croisette, Cannes, France
      • Dates: December 8–14

    Bridging Local Tours with Global Prestige

    PokerStars Open introduces a fresh twist to the European poker scene, bridging the gap between local tours and the prestigious EPT. Cédric Billot, Associate Director of Live Events Operations at PokerStars, explained:

    “Our PokerStars Open stops are going to provide players with incredible experiences, with each location having its own unique feel that will come together as a European series that both ladders up to the EPT and stand up in their own right.”

    This strategic shift allows PokerStars to offer large-scale, guaranteed events across Europe, moving beyond the constraints of national tours. Players can now look forward to more diverse locations and bigger prize pools, enhancing the overall appeal of the series.

    A Glimpse at the Numbers

    To put this new series into perspective, let’s examine what it means for poker enthusiasts:

    Event Main Event Buy-In Prize Pool Guarantee New/Established Stop
    Campione, Italy €1,100 €1M New
    Irish Open, Dublin €1,100 €1M Established
    Namur, Belgium €1,100 €1M New
    Malaga, Spain €1,100 €1M New
    Manchester, UK £1,100 £1M Established
    Cannes, France €1,100 €1M Established

    The high prize pools and affordable buy-ins make the PokerStars Open accessible to a wide range of players, from seasoned pros to ambitious amateurs.

    A New Era for Live Poker

    The PokerStars Open is more than just a tournament series—it’s a chance for players to explore Europe while chasing their poker dreams. With stops in picturesque cities like Cannes, Dublin, and Malaga, it offers not only competitive gameplay but also an opportunity for unforgettable travel experiences.

    PokerStars’ decision to combine smaller tours into a larger, more versatile series reflects a growing trend in live poker. The aim is clear: create events that draw players from around the world while maintaining a local flavour that resonates with regional audiences. This new format promises to reinvigorate the European poker scene and provide a platform for players to showcase their skills on a grand stage.

  • WATCH: The Top 25 Poker Hands of 2024

    WATCH: The Top 25 Poker Hands of 2024

    The poker world loves a good showdown, and 2024 has delivered a smorgasbord of unforgettable moments. From jaw-dropping bluffs to game-changing river cards, PokerGO has captured the year’s most thrilling hands in a must-watch compilation. Here’s a breakdown of what made these hands stand out—and why they’ll be talked about for years to come.

    A Clash of Canadian Titans

    One of the standout hands of the year took place in January during the PokerGO Tour Kickoff Series. Kristen Foxen and Daniel Negreanu, two of Canada’s biggest poker stars, faced off in a battle that had fans on the edge of their seats.

    Negreanu, holding a modest 3♣ 2♣, found himself on a complex board showing 9♥ 9♠ 3♣ K♠ K♦. Foxen attempted to bluff with 8♣ 7♣, but Negreanu countered with a bold move of his own. Turning his weak pair into an all-in bluff, he forced Foxen to fold, leaving spectators in awe of his creativity and guts.

    Erik Seidel’s Heartbreaking Exit

    Few moments in poker are as gut-wrenching as a bad beat on the bubble. At the World Series of Poker (WSOP), Erik Seidel experienced just that. Holding a higher flush against Saami Bechahed, Seidel appeared poised to secure a significant win. However, the river delivered the one card that could beat him—a miracle straight flush for Bechahed. The shocking outcome sent Seidel packing and left fans stunned.

    High-Stakes Drama on No Gamble, No Future

    Alan Keating delivered one of the year’s most memorable moments on the popular show No Gamble, No Future. In a massive cash game pot worth over $230,000, Keating found himself up against Humboldt Mike and his pocket jacks. The river was Keating’s saving grace, delivering trips and allowing him to scoop the life-changing pot.

    Millionaire Maker Magic

    The WSOP’s Millionaire Maker tournament lived up to its name, providing drama, heartbreak, and joy in equal measure. Justin Carey, with pocket deuces, went head-to-head against Franco Spitale and his A♣ 10♠. The flop looked promising for Carey, bringing a 10♥ 5♥ 2♦ and giving him a commanding lead with a set.

    But poker can be cruel. The A♥ on the turn and A♦ on the river flipped the script, handing Spitale a full house and the $1.3 million grand prize. His euphoric celebration, complete with fist pumps and a dramatic drop to his knees, captured the emotional highs of the game.

    Key Highlights from the Top 25

    • Bluffs That Paid Off: From Negreanu’s creative plays to unexpected moves in high-stakes tournaments, bluffing was an art form in 2024.
    • Hero Calls: Several hands showcased players making incredible reads and calls, trusting their instincts to secure monumental wins.
    • Miracle Rivers: Bechahed’s straight flush wasn’t the only river card to shock the poker community. Time and again, the river proved to be the great equaliser.

    Why This Compilation Matters

    PokerGO’s highlight reel isn’t just a collection of exciting moments—it’s a celebration of the skill, luck, and human drama that make poker an enduring spectacle. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a casual fan, these hands remind us why we love the game.

    Want to see the hand that took the top spot? The full video is available now on PokerGO’s platform. It’s a feast for anyone who loves the thrill of the game.