The 2024 PokerStars European Poker Tour Cyprus: A Closer Look at the EPT Main Event
The excitement is palpable as the 2024 PokerStars European Poker Tour (EPT) Cyprus reaches a crucial juncture, with the $5,300 EPT Main Event stirring the hearts of poker enthusiasts globally. This prestigious tournament has garnered immense attention, not only for its impressive guaranteed prize pool but also for the high caliber of players competing for glory at the magnificent Merit Royal Diamond Hotel and Spa.
Back to the Felt: The Remaining Contenders
As the tournament resumes at noon EEST, we find ourselves at the midway point with 45 contenders remaining from an astounding 1,284 total entries. The stakes are high, and every player is now focused not just on earning a reward but achieving the coveted title of EPT Main Event champion.
Among the notable names vying for success is Anton Wigg, the last remaining former EPT Main Event champion in the mix. Wigg, who triumphed at EPT Copenhagen in 2010, has been chasing another final table appearance since his 14th-place finish at EPT Berlin in 2012. Interestingly, he came close to a significant breakthrough at this very venue during the inaugural EPT Cyprus, where a crucial flip led him to exit in 18th place after Day 4. With 1,195,000 chips, Wigg is currently positioned tenth in chips and is keen on making a deep run towards the final table.
Top Ten Chip Counts
As the remaining players prepare for the day’s action, here’s a look at the top ten chip counts:
| Rank | Player | Country | Chip Count | Big Blinds |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Bobby James | United Kingdom | 2,605,000 | 174 |
| 2 | Damir Zhugralin | Kazakhstan | 2,410,000 | 161 |
| 3 | Philip Joyce | United Kingdom | 2,175,000 | 145 |
| 4 | Daniel Jackson | United Kingdom | 1,560,000 | 104 |
| 5 | Lander Lijo | Spain | 1,490,000 | 99 |
| 6 | Roeland Peeks | Netherlands | 1,350,000 | 90 |
| 7 | Adrien Quetelart | France | 1,275,000 | 85 |
| 8 | Artsiom Lasouski | Belarus | 1,240,000 | 83 |
| 9 | Christopher Nguyen | Germany | 1,200,000 | 80 |
| 10 | Anton Wigg | Sweden | 1,195,000 | 80 |
In addition to Wigg’s aspirations, players such as Andrea Dato and Halil Tasyurek are in the fray, both of whom reached the final table in the previous edition of the EPT. Dato, who finished as the runner-up last time, and Tasyurek, who placed fourth, will be eager to replicate their success.
Bobby James: The Current Leader
Leading the charge is Bobby James from the United Kingdom, wielding a stack of 2,605,000 chips. James has made waves during the tournament, showcasing a solid performance across various events, including a 19th place in the Eureka Main Event and a 12th in the High Roller. He even claimed a prestigious Spadie trophy by winning the $1,100 8-Game, further establishing his prowess on the Mediterranean’s gaming scene.
Strategy for Day 4
As Day 4 unfolds, players will commence at Level 21 with blinds set at 10,000/15,000 and a 15,000 big blind ante. The average stack sits close to 60 big blinds, providing a rich playing environment ripe for strategic maneuvers. The plan is set to continue until only 16 players remain or six levels have been played, with breaks scheduled after each level.
At this stage, every player is guaranteed at least $18,240 from the enticing $6,227,400 prize pool, with the prospect of sitting at the final table equaling a minimum payout of $123,400. The eventual champion will walk away not just with a life-changing prize of $1,030,000 but also the prestigious EPT trophy, a symbol of poker’s elite.
Remaining Payouts Overview
| Place | Prize | Place | Prize |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | $1,030,000 | 12-13 | $60,900 |
| 2 | $642,300 | 14-15 | $50,760 |
| 3 | $459,000 | 16-17 | $42,280 |
| 4 | $353,100 | 18-20 | $36,740 |
| 5 | $271,400 | 21-23 | $31,940 |
| 6 | $208,720 | 24-27 | $27,780 |
| 7 | $160,500 | 28-31 | $24,160 |
| 8 | $123,400 | 32-39 | $20,980 |
| 9 | $94,940 | 40-45 | $18,240 |
| 10-11 | $73,100 |
Conclusion
With thrilling action promised ahead, poker fans should stay tuned to PokerNews for updates and live coverage of the EPT Cyprus. As the day progresses, the tension will only rise, and every decision could be pivotal in the quest for the championship. Prepare for a spectacle as players like Anton Wigg, Bobby James, and others take their seats once more, navigating the strategy and psychological dynamics that make the EPT a hallmark of professional poker.
