Brian Kim Triumphs at Triton Poker Super High Roller Series Monte Carlo
The world of high-stakes poker witnessed an exhilarating showdown as the 2024 Triton Poker Super High Roller Series Monte Carlo kicked off with a resounding success. This prestigious tournament, with a buy-in of $25,000, attracted a stellar field of 170 entries, culminating in a staggering prize pool of $4.25 million. After two grueling days of intense gameplay, Southern California native but now Australian-residing professional poker player Brian Kim emerged victorious, securing his first title in a Triton event along with a hefty prize of $941,000.
The Triton Legacy
Triton Poker has become synonymous with high-stakes action, drawing some of the biggest names in the poker world. The last stop, which concluded in late May, saw a massive $99.8 million awarded across fourteen events. With the return of the series in November, the stage was set for yet another thrilling display of strategy, skill, and nerve.
Brian Kim: Rising to the Occasion
Brian Kim’s victory at the Triton event is particularly notable as it marked his first championship win in this exclusive circuit, despite having cashed in eighteen previous tournaments. His career earnings have now surpassed the $10.5 million mark, with over $6.2 million derived from Triton events alone. For Kim, who finished seventh in the previous World Series of Poker (WSOP) main event, this victory was not just about the money but also represented a personal milestone.
In his post-game interview, Kim articulated the competitive nature of Triton, stating, “It’s elusive. With all these great players, it’s possible I could have been coming to Triton for another seven years and not winning one.” His honesty highlights the unique challenge that high-stakes tournaments pose, even for the most seasoned players.
Points and Rankings
In addition to the financial reward, Kim’s win granted him 1,092 Card Player Player of the Year (POY) points. This achievement was vital for Kim, not only because it enhanced his ranking but also showcased his consistent performance throughout the year. He currently stands in 30th place in the 2024 POY race, with a total of 4,223 points and nearly $4.7 million in earnings for the year.
The Path to Victory
The final table at Monte Carlo featured many notable players, with only the top 27 participants earning a payout. Among those who made deep runs were bracelet winners such as Isaac Haxton and Artur Martirosian, alongside prominent figures like Hossein Ensan and three-time Triton champion Matthias Eibinger.
The final table kicked off with Alexandros Theologis leading the chip count and Brian Kim sitting in second place. Theologis quickly showcased his prowess, eliminating Elton Tsang by holding pocket aces against Tsang’s less fortuitous hand. However, a series of eliminations soon followed, with notable players like Aleksejs Ponakovs and Dominykas Mikolaitis falling victim to the intense competition.
As the ranks thinned, Kim’s strategic gameplay shone through. His key move against Roberto Perez—calling a shove from the small blind and hitting a pair of fives on the flop—demonstrated his ability to leverage the pressure in high-stakes situations. By the time it came down to three players, Kim had positioned himself well against his remaining opponents.
The Showdown
The climactic heads-up showdown saw Kim assert a slight lead against Enrico Camosci. The two exchanged significant chips, with Camosci momentarily taking control after winning a crucial coin flip. However, Kim’s steady nerve shone through as he battled back to reclaim the lead, ultimately sealing the victory after a tense few rounds.
Camosci, who finished as the runner-up, took home $634,000 along with 910 POY points, further solidifying his impressive year on the circuit.
Final Standings and Payouts
The final table not only rewarded players with substantial payouts but also significant POY points, reflecting their skill and dedication in a competitive tournament landscape. Here’s a look at the final standings and earnings:
| Place | Player | Earnings | POY Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Brian Kim | $941,000 | 1,092 |
| 2 | Enrico Camosci | $634,000 | 910 |
| 3 | Alexandros Theologis | $436,000 | 728 |
| 4 | Roberto Perez | $356,000 | 546 |
| 5 | Tom Fuchs | $284,000 | 455 |
| 6 | Dominykas Mikolaitis | $218,000 | 364 |
| 7 | Aleksejs Ponakovs | $159,000 | 273 |
| 8 | Ranno Sootla | $115,000 | 182 |
Closing Thoughts
Brian Kim’s triumph at the Triton Poker Super High Roller Series Monte Carlo is a testament to his skill, perseverance, and tactical acumen. As the Triton tour continues to attract elite players and create thrilling narratives, poker enthusiasts around the globe eagerly anticipate what comes next in this high-octane arena. With the stakes continually rising, Kim’s recent success serves as a reminder of the unpredictability and excitement that define the world of professional poker.
Photo credits: Triton Poker / Drew Amato.
