In the glittering coastal principality of Monaco, where fast cars meet high-stakes ambition, a new poker champion was crowned. On the final day of the European Poker Tour (EPT) Monte Carlo Main Event 2025, Aleksandr Shevliakov from Russia emerged victorious, defeating a massive 1,208-player field and securing €1,000,000 in prize money. His triumph wasn’t just about the paycheck—it was about carving a name in European poker history.
The Story Behind the Champion
It was an intense five-day grind, but for Shevliakov, this victory represents years of effort and perseverance. Known for his sharp focus and calm demeanor, Shevliakov navigated through one of the most competitive fields the EPT has seen in recent years. The win marks the biggest career score for the Russian pro and his first-ever EPT Main Event title.
He entered the final table fifth in chips but remained unshaken. With the world watching from the iconic Salle des Etoiles, Shevliakov played his A-game, maintaining patience and striking when it mattered most. His final heads-up battle against Sweden’s Jon Kyte was a masterclass in composure and strategic aggression.
A Record-Breaking EPT Monte Carlo
The 2025 edition of EPT Monte Carlo shattered expectations. With 1,208 entries, the €5,300 Main Event created a staggering €5,858,000 prize pool. It stands as one of the largest Main Events in EPT Monte Carlo history, further solidifying the series’ status as Europe’s premier poker festival.
Here’s a quick breakdown of the event:
- Buy-in: €5,300
- Entries: 1,208
- Prize Pool: €5,858,000
- First Place: €1,000,000
- Final Table Duration: ~10 hours
With players flying in from across Europe, North America, and Asia, the event brought back a taste of old-school poker glamour, all set against the breathtaking Riviera.
Final Table Recap: Tactical Brilliance
The final table saw a mix of seasoned veterans and rising stars. While all eyes were initially on chip leader Juan Pardo, the story quickly became about Shevliakov’s calculated rise. Here’s how the final table played out:
Final Table Results – EPT Monte Carlo 2025
| Position | Player | Country | Prize |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1st | Aleksandr Shevliakov | Russia | €1,000,000 |
| 2nd | Jon Kyte | Norway | €620,400 |
| 3rd | Eliot Hudon | Canada | €442,900 |
| 4th | Juan Pardo | Spain | €340,900 |
| 5th | Guillaume Diaz | France | €262,300 |
| 6th | Alexandre Vuilleumier | Switzerland | €201,400 |
| 7th | Kazuhiko Yotsushika | Japan | €154,900 |
| 8th | Markku Koplimaa | Estonia | €119,000 |
The final hand was dramatic: Shevliakov’s pocket queens held against Kyte’s ace-jack, sealing the victory and igniting celebration on the rail.
What This Win Means for Shevliakov
While Shevliakov may not have had the biggest name at the table, this win cements his status among Europe’s elite. The €1 million payday pushes him past the $1.5 million mark in live earnings and opens the door to new opportunities—be it sponsorships, invitations to elite high roller events, or a new legion of fans.
More importantly, this victory is a reminder of poker’s unpredictability. You don’t need to be the biggest name to win—just the best player on the day.
A Resurgent European Poker Tour
This year’s EPT Monte Carlo was more than just a poker series; it was a celebration of the game’s global revival post-pandemic. With events like the €100K Super High Roller and side events filled to capacity, it was clear: live poker is back in full force in Europe.
For many international players, including a strong contingent from India, Latin America, and North America, Monte Carlo was not only a destination but a dream. The synergy of opulence, challenge, and history made this EPT stop unforgettable.
The Poker World Reacts
The poker community was quick to acknowledge Shevliakov’s composure and execution. On social media, pros like Lex Veldhuis and Sam Grafton praised the level of play on the final table. Many fans even labeled this final as one of the most technically sound performances in recent EPT history.
Meanwhile, tournament director Toby Stone highlighted the success of the entire series, hinting at further expansions and innovations for future EPT stops.
Final Thoughts: A Moment to Remember
Aleksandr Shevliakov’s win at EPT Monte Carlo 2025 is a poker fairytale come true. From being the underdog at the final table to holding the trophy and a €1,000,000 cheque, his journey reminds us that in poker—skill, heart, and timing can overcome even the most stacked deck.
As the European Poker Tour looks ahead to future destinations like Barcelona and Prague, one thing is certain: the game is thriving, and new legends are being born—one hand at a time.
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