Zobian wins 2024 U.S. Poker Open

The PokerGO Tour® (PGT®) has a new major tournament series winner. On Wednesday, Aram Zobian claimed victory at the 2024 U.S. Poker Open at the PokerGO Studio in Las Vegas, winning the prestigious Golden Eagle trophy and $25,000 PGT Passport bonus prize.

Zobian finished the eight-event series with one victory, four cashes, and more than $600,000 in prize money won. He topped the 2024 U.S. Poker Open leaderboard with 616 points, nearly 200 points ahead of any other competitor. Zobian joins Martin Zamani (2023), Sean Winter (2022), David Peters (2021, 2019), and Stephen Chidwick (2018) as U.S. Poker Open champions.

- Event #2: $10,100 NL Hold'em - 2nd place for $163,350
- Event #4: $10,100 NL Hold'em - 3rd place for $107,900
- Event #6: $15,100 NL Hold'em - 1st place for $264,290
- Event #8: $25,200 NL Hold'em - 6th place for $78,000

Zobian's performance moved him to third place on the 2024 PGT leaderboard with 1,048 points. Zobian trails only David Coleman (1,259 points) and Dylan Weisman (1,126 points). The top 40 point earners from the 2024 PGT season will compete in the season-ending PGT Championship $1,000,000 Freeroll for the right to be crowned 2024 PGT champion.

Next up for the PGT is the first-ever PGT Texas Poker Open running April 24-May 5 at Champions Club Texas. The series is headlined by the $3,300 buy-in $2,000,000 guaranteed Texas Poker Open Main Event.

Reade more >>

Online poker continues to grow despite legal challenges

Despite regulatory and legal challenges in many countries, the online poker industry continues to experience steady growth. With the advent of digital technologies and the expansion of online gambling, more and more players are turning to virtual platforms to satisfy their passion for poker.

In many countries, online poker is in a sort of "legal limbo", with uncertain and ever-changing regulations. However, this does not seem to stop the enthusiasm of players, who continue to frequent online platforms to participate in tournaments, cash games and other events.

Online poker platforms are also increasingly investing in game security and transparency, implementing measures to prevent compulsive gambling and protect vulnerable players.

While some jurisdictions continue to struggle with the issue of regulating online poker, others are taking a more progressive approach, seeking to integrate online gambling into the legal economy and protect players through clear and rigorous regulations.

The growth of online poker presents unique challenges and opportunities for the gambling industry and players themselves. As the discussion over legality and regulation continues, one thing is certain: online poker will remain a significant part of the gambling landscape in the modern world.

Reade more >>

The future of poker after the pandemic

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on the poker industry, with the closure of brick-and-mortar casinos and the growth of online poker. However, as the world recovers from the pandemic, many are wondering what the future of poker is and how the industry will adapt to post-pandemic changes. One trend that could continue even after the pandemic is the rise in popularity of online poker. 

Many players have discovered the benefits of online poker during the lockdown period and may continue to play online even when land-based casinos fully reopen. This could lead to greater development and innovation in the online poker industry, with new features and gaming options that meet the needs of modern players. At the same time, brick-and-mortar casinos are likely to adapt to ensure player safety and comply with health regulations. 

Social distancing measures, frequent sanitizing and capacity limits may be introduced to reduce the risk of spreading the virus. Additionally, more online tournaments and events may be offered to meet demand from players who prefer to avoid crowded venues. Ultimately, poker could continue to evolve as a competitive sport and an opportunity for players to excel at a professional level. 

With ever-increasing prize money and increasingly prestigious tournaments, poker could become even more attractive to players around the world, fueling a new era of competition and success in the game. In conclusion, the future of poker is still uncertain, but with innovation, adaptation, and the passion of players, poker will surely continue to thrive as one of the most popular forms of entertainment and competition in the gaming world.

Reade more >>

Poker as an educational tool

Poker is not just a game of chance, but it can also be an effective educational tool for developing cognitive and social skills. Many educators and psychologists believe that poker can teach important lessons in strategy, mathematics, psychology and money management. One of the main skills that poker can help you develop is the ability to make informed decisions under conditions of uncertainty. 

In poker, players must evaluate the odds, analyze available information, and make decisions based on limited data. This critical decision-making process can be extremely useful in everyday life and in professional fields such as business and finance. Additionally, poker can teach important mathematical concepts, such as calculating probabilities and managing risk. 

Players must be able to evaluate the odds of winning a hand and decide whether it is worth risking their money based on those calculations. These math skills can be applied in a variety of contexts outside of poker, such as financial investments and everyday life decisions. In addition to cognitive skills, poker can also help develop social and emotional skills. 

During a poker game, players must be able to read their opponents' facial expressions and body language, as well as manage their emotions in high-pressure situations. These social and emotional skills are critical to success in personal and professional life. In summary, poker can be a valuable educational tool for developing a wide range of cognitive, mathematical, social and emotional skills, offering players a unique opportunity for growth and learning.

Reade more >>

The growing interest in online poker during the pandemic

During the COVID-19 pandemic, online poker has seen a significant increase in interest from players around the world. With land-based casinos closed or limited by government restrictions, players have increasingly turned to online platforms to satisfy their passion for gaming. Online poker rooms have seen an increase in traffic and activity, with more players signing up and participating in tournaments and cash games. 

Major online poker operators reported record increases in gaming volume and revenue during the lockdown period. One reason for this increase is the convenience and accessibility of online poker. Players can participate in tournaments and cash games from their own home, avoiding the need to travel or deal with pandemic-related restrictions. 

Additionally, many platforms offer a wide range of game options, allowing players to easily find games suited to their skill level and budget. However, as online traffic has increased, security and regulatory issues have also emerged. Some platforms have faced challenges related to fraud, collusion and compulsive gambling. 

As a result, regulators have stepped up their efforts to monitor and regulate the online poker industry, in order to protect players and ensure a fair and safe gaming environment. Despite these challenges, online poker continues to thrive as a popular and engaging form of entertainment, with more and more players joining the global online poker community.

Reade more >>

Poker as a mental sport

Poker is a card game, but it is also a mental sport. To be successful at poker, in fact, you need to possess a series of cognitive skills, including: 

• Concentration: You must be able to concentrate on the game for long periods of time and not get distracted. 
• Memory: It is important to remember the cards that have been played and the moves of your opponents. 
• Calculation: You need to know how to calculate the probabilities of winning and losing in every situation. 
• Decision making: You must be able to make quick and rational decisions under pressure. 
• Emotional control: It is important to know how to manage your emotions and not be influenced by tilt. 

Poker is a great workout for the mind and can help improve your cognitive skills. Additionally, poker can be a very fun and socializing game. If you are interested in learning how to play poker, you can find numerous resources online and offline. 

There are also many books and videos that can help you improve your skills. Poker is a complex and fascinating game that can be both mentally and financially rewarding. If you're ready to test your skills, start playing poker today!

Reade more >>

The first Italian online poker league is born

The first Italian online poker league, the Italian Poker League (IPL), was born. The league, organized by PokerStars, is made up of 10 teams made up of some of the best Italian professional players. 

How does IPL work? 

Teams will compete in a series of online tournaments throughout the year. 

The team that obtains the highest number of points at the end of the regular season will win the title of Italian champion. 

The IPL is an important event for Italian poker because: 

• Promotes gaming in a healthy and responsible way. 
• It offers Italian players the opportunity to compete at a high level. 
• It allows amateur players to compete with professionals. 
• Increases the visibility of poker in Italy. 

The IPL is a laudable initiative that will contribute to the growth of Italian poker and make it even more popular.

Reade more >>

Online poker, boom in players in Italy

Online poker is continually growing in Italy, with an ever-increasing number of players becoming passionate about this card game. According to data from PokerStars, one of the best-known operators in the sector, in 2023 the number of Italian players active on the platform increased by 20% compared to the previous year. 

What are the reasons for this boom? 

• Accessibility: Online poker is accessible to everyone, from any device and at any time. All you need is an internet connection and an account on a poker site to start playing. 
• Ease of learning: The rules of poker are simple to learn, even for those who have never played before. There are numerous online resources and tutorials that can help beginners get started. 
• Variety: Poker offers a wide variety of games and variations, suitable for all tastes and experience levels. Socializing: Online poker is a great way to socialize and meet new people. 

You can play with friends, family or opponents from all over the world. 

Winning Chances: Poker is a game of skill and luck, in which it is possible to win sums of money even with a small initial investment. Online poker is a growing phenomenon that will continue to thrive in the coming years. 

The game offers a unique combination of accessibility, ease of learning, variety, socialization and chances of winning that makes it irresistible to an ever-widening audience.

Reade more >>

Poker and Artificial Intelligence: Challenges and Opportunities

Artificial intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing many industries, including poker.

Learning Tools:

AI software like PioSolver and GTO Wizard help players improve their game by analyzing millions of hands and providing optimal strategies. These tools are especially useful for beginner players, who can learn the basics of poker quickly and effectively.

Ethical challenges:

The use of AI software at the poker table has raised some ethical questions. There are those who fear that these tools could give an unfair advantage to the players who use them and that they could distort the essence of poker.

Future of Poker:

AI will continue to play an important role in the poker of the future. The challenge will be to find a balance between using these tools to improve the game and respecting ethics and fair play.

Some AI software:

• PioSolver: a software that helps you calculate

Reade more >>

Live Poker: Big Events and Emerging Talents

Live poker is no different, with a calendar full of events around the world.

Unmissable events:

Among the most anticipated tournaments of 2024 are the World Series of Poker (WSOP) in Las Vegas, the European Poker Tour (EPT) and the PokerStars Players Championship. These events attract the best players in the world and offer million-dollar prize pools.

New talents:

Alongside the well-known names of poker, new talents are emerging, capable of competing at high levels and achieving important successes. These players come from all over the world and bring a new style of play, more aggressive and creative.

Italy protagonist:

Italy is a country with a great poker tradition. In 2024, numerous major events will be held in our country, including the Italian Poker Open (IPO) and the PokerStars National Championship. These tournaments will be an opportunity for Italian players to show off and compete for important prizes.

Some events:

• WSOP 2024: May 31 - July 18, Las Vegas. 
• EPT Barcelona: 12-26 August, Barcelona. 
• PokerStars Players Championship: January 30 - February 12, Bahamas.

Outlook for 2024:

• Live poker will continue to grow in popularity. 
• Big events will be held all over the world. 
• New poker stars will emerge on the international scene.

Reade more >>

Online Poker: Boom in Members and New Challenges for 2024

Online poker continues to experience a period of great growth, with a constantly increasing number of members. New generations and mobile: Driving this trend are above all the new generations, attracted by the convenience and accessibility of online gaming. Mobile, in particular, represents an increasingly used platform for playing poker, with an intuitive interface that can be used from any device. 

Operators and bonuses: 

To intercept this new demand, online poker operators are multiplying, offering increasingly rich bonuses and attractive promotions. Competition is fierce and the level of service is constantly growing, with particular attention to safety and fair play. 

Challenges and trends: 

Despite its growth, online poker faces some challenges, such as combating gambling addiction and competing with other online gambling games. The future of the sector will depend on the ability of operators to innovate and offer an increasingly engaging and safe gaming experience. 

Some data: 

• +20% of registrations for online tournaments in 2023 compared to 2022. 
• +30% of players using mobile to play poker. 
• Welcome bonuses of up to €1,000 offered by some operators.

Outlook for 2024: 

• Further growth in the number of online poker members is expected. 
• Mobile will continue to grow in popularity. 
• Operators will focus on safety and fair play.

Reade more >>

Charity event organized by Italian poker stars raises record funds

Rome, 24 March 2024 - A great success for the charity event organized by some of the Italian poker stars. The tournament, which was held in Rome last weekend, raised a record amount of €100,000 for various charities.

Among the players who took part in the event were Dario Sammartino, Mustapha Kanit, Alessandro De Angelis, Federica Masotti and many others. The tournament was won by Andrea Dato, who received a prize of €20,000.

"We are really happy with the success of this initiative," said Dario Sammartino. "It was great to see so many players come together for a common cause. Thank you to everyone who helped make this event possible."

The funds raised will be used to support various charities dealing with causes such as the fight against poverty, child protection and medical research.

Reade more >>

Young Italian talent wins his first online major tournament

Milan, March 24, 2024 - The young Italian talent Marco "Markino94" Mantovani won his first online major tournament. The 22-year-old triumphed in the PokerStars €10,000 High Roller, beating a field of over 1,000 players to collect a €200,000 prize.

Mantovani, who has been playing online poker since he was a minor, has already established himself as one of the best players on the Italian scene. In 2023 he won the €2,500 Italian Championship of Online Poker and has achieved several other cash finishes in high-level online tournaments.

"It's a dream come true," said Mantovani. “I worked hard to achieve this goal and I'm really happy I did it.”

Reade more >>

New rules for online poker in Italy: what changes for players

Rome, 24 March 2024 - The new rules for online poker in Italy have come into force. The new provisions, introduced by the Dignity Decree, provide various changes for players.

Among the main changes is the introduction of a maximum monthly deposit limit of €1,000. Furthermore, players will be required to carry out a self-assessment before being able to play online poker.

The new rules have sparked a heated debate among players and industry operators. There are those who believe that the new provisions are too restrictive and risk damaging the Italian online poker market. Others, however, argue that the new rules are necessary to protect players and combat pathological gambling.

Reade more >>

Poker News: The latest news from the world of poker

From the WSOP to online poker, here are the latest news

Daniel Negreanu wins the first tournament of 2024

For Negreanu, as mentioned, the year just ended was the worst of his entire career. The Canadian recorded a deficit of $2,228,174. In the last ten years it had closed only one other year in deficit, 2016, for 1.25M, while in 2017 it had essentially made even.

Phil Ivey wins his tenth WSOP bracelet

Phil Ivey makes history: he won his tenth WSOP bracelet

Reade more >>

Unmissable events around the world

Live poker is no different from online poker, with several unmissable events scheduled for March 2024.

EPT Paris: The European Poker Tour (EPT) stops in Paris from March 7-17. The Main Event will have a buy-in of €5,300 and a guaranteed prize pool of €7 million.

WSOP Circuit: The WSOP Circuit is underway in multiple locations around the world. Players who win a WSOP Circuit ring will qualify for the WSOP Global Casino Championship, which will be held in Las Vegas in 2025.

Triton Poker Super High Roller Series: The Triton Poker Super High Roller Series is a series of tournaments reserved for the most high stakes players in the world. The next event will be held in Macau from March 14 to 24.

Italian Poker Tour: The Italian Poker Tour (IPT) is the most important live poker tour in Italy. The next stage will be held in Sanremo from 24 to 30 March.

Not just events:

In addition to the events, there are other news in the world of live poker. PokerGO is the new streaming platform that offers the possibility of following the most important live poker tournaments in the world.

New rules and variations:

New poker rules and variations are emerging in the live poker landscape. Progressive ante poker is a variant that is gaining popularity, as it increases the action and fun of the game.

The future of live poker:

Live poker is a unique experience that cannot be replicated online. The future of live poker is bright, with new events and variations that will continue to attract players from all over the world.

Reade more >>

Online Poker: What's new for March 2024

New tournament series and unmissable promotions

The world of online poker is constantly evolving, with new tournaments and promotions launching every month. March 2024 is no different, with several new features that will whet the appetite of all enthusiasts.

PokerStars: The most famous online poker room in the world has started the Carnival Series, a series of tournaments with guaranteed prize pools of over €10 million. The series includes events to suit all tastes and skill levels, with buy-ins ranging from €1 to €250.

888poker: 888poker has also launched a series of unmissable tournaments, called The Festival. The series includes events featuring several poker variations, including Texas Hold'em, Omaha and 5 Card Draw. The total guaranteed prize pool is €5 million.

Partypoker: Partypoker has instead decided to focus on promotions. Throughout the month of March, players who qualify for the Partypoker Million will have the chance to win a guaranteed prize pool of €1 million.

Not just tournaments and promotions:

In addition to tournaments and promotions, there are other news in the world of online poker. PokerStars VR is the new virtual reality poker platform that allows players to enjoy an immersive and realistic gaming experience.

WSOP Online: The World Series of Poker (WSOP) will also be held online in 2024. The event will take place on several platforms, including PokerStars, 888poker and partypoker. The total guaranteed prize pool is $100 million.

The future of online poker:

Online poker is continually growing and the future of the game is bright. New technologies and innovations will continue to improve the gaming experience and attract new players.

Reade more >>

Boom in Women's Poker: New Protagonists and Challenges to Face

In recent years, there has been a real boom in women's poker. More and more women are approaching this game, challenging stereotypes and preconceptions and demonstrating great talent and skill.

New Protagonists:

Players like Vanessa Selbst, Liv Boeree and Kristen Bicknell have reached historic heights, winning prestigious tournaments and beating high-level male opponents.

Challenges to Face:

Despite the progress, women in poker still face several challenges. Sexism and gender inequality are still present in some poker circles.

Promoting Inclusion:

Several initiatives are aimed at promoting inclusion and diversity in poker. Associations such as Women in Poker and Ladies European Poker Tour organize events and tournaments dedicated to women.

Conclusion:

The future of poker is full of new challenges and opportunities. Artificial intelligence, new technologies and the growing number of female players are helping to evolve this game in unexpected ways. Poker remains an exciting and competitive activity, capable of providing excitement and satisfaction at all levels.

Reade more >>

New Frontiers of Online Poker: Immersive Experience and Socialization

Online poker is constantly evolving, with new technologies offering an increasingly engaging and socializing gaming experience.

Virtual and Augmented Reality:

Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) are opening up new possibilities for online poker. Players can immerse themselves in a realistic virtual environment and interact with opponents as if they were sitting at the same table.

Socialization and Interaction:

Online poker platforms are implementing new features to improve interaction between players. Group chats, emoticons and video chats allow you to create a more social and fun environment.

Online Tournaments with Record Prize Money:

Online poker also offers the possibility of participating in tournaments with millionaire prize pools. Accessible from any device, these tournaments attract players from all over the world and offer the chance to win astronomical sums.

Reade more >>

Artificial Intelligence dominates Poker: Challenge for the Pros or New Tool?

In recent years, artificial intelligence (AI) has made significant progress in the field of poker. Programs like Pluribus and Cepheus have defeated professional champions head-to-head, demonstrating unprecedented calculation and strategy.

New challenges for professional players:

The rise of AI in poker poses several questions for professional players. How can they compete against adversaries who have far superior computing and analytics power? Do you need to adapt your strategies to exploit AI weaknesses?

Opportunities to improve the game:

AI can also be seen as a new tool to improve the game of poker. By analyzing millions of hands and identifying the best approaches in each situation, AI can help players refine their strategies and make more precise decisions.

Open debate:

The debate on the impact of AI in poker is still open. There are those who fear that AI could make the game less competitive and more mechanical. Others see AI as an opportunity to evolve poker and reach new levels of strategy and complexity.

Reade more >>