Tabatabai Wins All Africa

March 15, 2008

John Tabatabai, who finished second in at the World Series of Poker Europe, won the 12th All Africa Poker Championship. The tournament was held in Piggs Peak Casino, Swaziland and is growing in prestige and popularity. Raymond Rahme, who made the final table at the 2007 World Series of Poker, finished third in at the All Africa event.

Tabatabai won one million South African Rand, which equals about US$126, 346. He also earned a seat at the World Series of Poker main event. Tabatabai’s success is expected to boost the popularity of the game in South Africa, but even he warns players from jumping into the game on the deep end.

“Do not try to become a pro or make poker your sole income,” he said after winning the All Africa Poker Championship. “You will play better if you have a backstop, something that takes the financial pressure off. Never assume you are the best player. Listen to everyone, even players you consider weaker than yourself. They will give you an insight into how they think which will help you play against them.”

Tabatabai is just 22 year old and hails from London, England. Chess was his first passion and he played in European and World Championships. He turned to poker in college and has an interesting approach to the game, which has more to do with his opponents than with what cards he has.

At the All Africa, the cards he had to play with would have eliminated a lesser player. Finally, at the final table he ended up with great hands and good flops which helped him to the title.

With a big win like the All Africa and the WSOP Europe already under his belt, Tabatabai could be one of the young up-and-comers to watch on the international poker scene in the years to come. Tabatabai’s next event is in San Remo, Italy, for the European Poker Tour event taking place in April 1 - 5, 2008.

Written by Tom · Filed Under Poker News |

Tabatabai Wins All Africa

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