Ryan Mandara, a relatively unknown poker player from the United Kingdom, emerged victorious in the prestigious European Poker Tour (EPT) Cyprus $10,300 side event, taking home an impressive $709,285 in prize money.
The tournament, which took place at the luxurious Merit Casino in Cyprus, attracted a field of 185 players, all vying for a shot at the coveted title and the substantial cash prize that came with it. Mandara, showing incredible skill and determination, outlasted all his opponents to claim his first major live tournament victory.
Mandara, who had previously only cashed for a total of $52,500 in live tournaments according to the Hendon Mob database, stunned the poker world with his victory. The young Brit, who is in his early 30s, displayed nerves of steel and a strategic mind that helped him navigate through a tough field of opponents.
In the final hand of the tournament, Mandara faced off against his last opponent, a seasoned poker pro with years of experience under his belt. Despite the pressure and the high stakes, Mandara remained calm and collected, eventually besting his opponent with a winning hand that secured him the title and the massive prize money.
Speaking after his win, Mandara expressed his delight at his unexpected victory. “I still can’t believe it,” he said. “This is a dream come true for me, and I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to compete against some of the best players in the world and come out on top.”
Mandara’s win at the EPT Cyprus $10,300 side event is sure to catapult him into the spotlight and mark him as one to watch in the world of professional poker. As he basks in his newfound success, Mandara is already setting his sights on more victories in the future, aiming to cement his status as one of the top players in the game.
The EPT Cyprus $10,300 side event was a thrilling and competitive tournament, showcasing the best of the best in the world of professional poker. With Ryan Mandara emerging as the champion, the event once again proved that in poker, anything is possible, and that talent and skill can overcome the odds to achieve greatness.
