Atanas Malinov Clinches Victory at the 2024 PokerStars EPT Monte Carlo FPS Main Event

Key Takeaways

• Atanas Malinov wins FPS €1,100 Main Event at EPT Monte Carlo, securing €303,190.
• Malinov displayed exceptional skill and composure, leading from the final day to victory.
• The event attracted 2,096 entries, generating a substantial €2,012,160 prize pool.

At the spectacular 2024 PokerStars European Poker Tour Monte Carlo, Atanas Malinov showcased an unparalleled masterclass in poker, skillfully navigating his way to a well-deserved victory in the FPS €1,100 Main Event at the iconic Sporting Monte-Carlo. With a formidable chip lead from the get-go, Malinov's strategic acumen shone brightly as he meticulously dispatched his final five opponents, claiming not only the title and the coveted trophy but also a hefty prize of €303,190.

A familiar face on the European poker circuit, Malinov has accumulated over $700,000 in tournament winnings before this landmark triumph. His poker resume boasts a notable six-figure score from 2015 at a Merit event in Cyprus, where he finished second for $190,000. Malinov had also previously made his mark at a PokerStars branded tour final table, finishing sixth at Eureka Prague 2014 for €52,050.

Now at 30, Malinov's prowess as a seasoned pro was undeniable, with an impressive array of five-figure online cashes and a prestigious WCOOP title under his belt. "I'm feeling very good. Very happy, obviously, because it's my biggest win. And also, trophy in a tournament with tons of guys," Malinov expressed in his winner's interview, hinting at a celebration to commemorate his victory.

The FPS Main Event drew an impressive crowd of 2,096 entries, creating a massive €2,012,160 prize pool. PokerStars Ambassadors Felix Schneiders, Lasse Jagd Lauritsen, and Simon Wiciak were among the 314 players who cashed, each securing a return on their investment.

The event was not without its dramatic moments. Remy Murcia, the local favorite from Nice, made a bold hero call that left him hanging by a thread, and Malinov quickly dashed his hopes, knocking him out in sixth place. Gabi Livshitz, starting as the short stack, mounted a remarkable challenge against Malinov but eventually fell. Guillaume Nolet's journey was cut short by Malinov's strategic brilliance, and Marco Gambini's luck ran out against Malinov's rivered set of fours.

In the climactic heads-up battle, despite Virgile Turchi's valiant efforts and temporary comebacks, Malinov's strategic queen-high call in a pivotal pot propelled him to clinch the title after an intense showdown. Reflecting on his decisive high-card call, Malinov analyzed, "I thought he would have some big sixes or some five-x that would bluff. And it was just a little bet, like 10% of the pot." This critical read sealed Turchi's fate, cementing Malinov's position as the champion and marking his first major live title victory.