Record-breaking WPT Prime Thailand Announces $2.3 Million Prize Fund

In the heart of Bangkok, the poker world witnessed a historic moment as the first major poker tournament in Thailand, the WPT Prime Thailand Championship, took place. With a prize pool of 75,488,000 THB ($2.3 million), the tournament attracted 2,337 entries, culminating in an intense final table that was livestreamed for the world to see.

The final table, consisting of 14 players, was a test of skill and endurance. After six hours of play on weekdays and shorter levels to accommodate the fast-paced action, the final day's play moved quickly.

The tournament saw a series of exciting performances, but it was Haoran Sun who emerged victorious. Sun, who earned a $10,400 seat for the 2025 WPT World Championship as part of his winnings, displayed an aggressive playstyle that proved to be a key factor in his victory.

Sun's winning streak began when he eliminated Thailand's Hyundong Lee, the winner of the WPT Prime Thailand Championship held in Taiwan, in an early elimination. The final blow came when Sun outplayed Philipp Zukernik in a thrilling heads-up match, securing a prize of 11,477,000 THB ($353,497) and the championship title.

Zukernik, who finished second, took home a respectable prize of 7,620,000 THB ($234,699), while Duhan Lee finished third with a prize of 5,658,000 THB ($174,269).

Thailand's government's recognition of poker as a sport allowed these tournaments to run within the country. Prizes for the WPT Prime Thailand Championship were paid out in travel funds due to gambling restrictions within the country.

With the success of the WPT Prime Thailand Championship, WPT Prime is now set to host a series in Taiwan from August 6-19, with a guarantee of TWD 35,000,000 (~$1.1 million) for its championship event. As the poker scene in Thailand continues to grow, it's clear that the country is becoming a significant player in the global poker community.