Jesse Lonis is in the lead, but perhaps not for much longer
The Global Poker Index (GPI) Player of the Year race is entering its final stretch, and December’s packed poker calendar could bring significant shifts to the leaderboard. The GPI awards points based on players’ top performances in live tournaments each year, creating rankings across three key categories: overall Player of the Year, Female Player of the Year, and Mid-Majors Player of the Year.
Currently leading the overall standings is Jesse Lonis from the US, with 4,374.38 points. He’s closely followed by David Coleman and Adrian Mateos, with only a small margin separating the top three.
With major events like the European Poker Tour in Prague, WSOP Paradise, and the World Poker Tour Championship at Wynn Las Vegas still on the horizon, the competition remains fierce. These events present ample opportunities for players to secure last-minute points and potentially claim the title.
In the Female Player of the Year category, Kristen Foxen of Canada holds a commanding lead with 2,863.48 points. Foxen has been a dominant figure in this category for years, but players like Cherish Andrews and Victoria Livschitz are within striking distance. With December’s tournaments offering critical points, a standout performance could change the standings.
The Mid-Majors race, focusing on tournaments with buy-ins of $2,500 or less, is led by Han Feng with 3,014.45 points. Cherish Andrews, also in the top ten of the overall rankings, sits in second place, followed by South Korea’s Steve Yea. This category highlights the accomplishments of players outside the high-stakes circuit, ensuring a fair chance for recognition.
With such a dynamic leaderboard across all categories, December’s results will likely shape the final outcomes. The race underscores the intense competition and dedication among the world’s top poker players as they vie for GPI honors.
Editor at the Big Blind, is a rising star in gambling journalism with a decade of experience, focusing on clear and accessible communication for a diverse audience.