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Natalia NikitinaPoker player
Country:
 Russia |
Content:
- Natalie Nikitina: Rising Star in the World of Poker
- Rising Star
- Confidence and Determination
- Impact of Sam Trickett's Early Elimination
- Relief and Triumph
- Support and Celebration
- Focus on Success
- Global Recognition
- Future Plans
Natalie Nikitina: Rising Star in the World of Poker
Historic VictoryIn February, poker player Natalie Nikitina made headlines as the surprise winner of the World Poker Tour (WPT) Main Event in Paris. The Russian-born player took home a prize of €243,830 and instant global recognition.
Rising Star
Nikitina has recently signed a deal with the promotional organization Poker Royalty, which represents some of poker's biggest stars. In an interview with PokerPlayer, she spoke about her historic win: "It's an amazing feeling. I'm so proud to have won. There are so many strong women playing on the WPT, so to become the first to win is fantastic."
Confidence and Determination
Asked if she believed she could make history at the tournament, Nikitina said: "I felt confident in my game and I knew I would win a tournament eventually. I always try to go as far as I can, and no matter how tough the field is, I knew I had a good chance if I made the final table."
Impact of Sam Trickett's Early Elimination
Sam Trickett, who had been on a hot streak, was eliminated early in the final table. However, according to Nikitina, she didn't give Trickett's form much thought: "I didn't really pay attention to how Sam was playing. I was happy to see any player bust out."
Relief and Triumph
Describing her emotions after the final hand, Nikitina said: "The first thing I felt was relief that it was all over. I had a fever and a terrible sore throat, which made it very difficult to play at the final table. I felt much better when it was down to three players, and then I had a key hand where I had K9 against my opponent's 57. The flop was good for me, with Q-Q-J, but the 7 came on the turn. However, on the river the dealer gave me the straight and I knew I had to win."
Support and Celebration
Nikitina had a strong support team in Paris, including her boyfriend Max Kolosov. "My boyfriend Max Kolosov was supporting me," she said. "He's a great player himself, and he was playing the high roller event in Paris. He helped me a lot and gave me advice."
After her victory, Nikitina returned home to celebrate with her family and close friends. She also purchased a new BMW, with the help of her boyfriend, and some gifts for her family.
Focus on Success
Despite her historic win, Nikitina is eager to prove that it was not a one-time fluke. "It is important for me to show people that this wasn't a one-off, so I am determined to build on my success," she said.
Global Recognition
Nikitina's victory has received immense attention in Russia and around the world. "The reaction in Russia has been incredible," she said. "I've been surprised by the interest from around the world. I've had TV appearances and lots of interview requests. It's been a lot of fun, but I'm trying to focus on poker now and hopefully win some more."
Future Plans
Nikitina plans to play in the next WPT event in Vienna and may also attend a few stops on the European Poker Tour (EPT). She is also looking forward to making her debut at the World Series of Poker (WSOP).
