Gaëlle Baumann, one of the most recognizable figures in Team Winamax’s history, has officially announced her departure. Nearly 13 years after joining the team, Baumann reflects on a journey filled with achievements, challenges, and unforgettable memories. Leaving on good terms, she departs with “only good memories” and immense gratitude for her time as part of the Winamax family.
A Stellar Career with Team Winamax
Baumann joined Team Winamax in early 2012, just five months before taking the poker world by storm at the World Series of Poker (WSOP). She famously finished 10th in the Main Event, narrowly missing out on the November Nine. Outlasting a field of 6,598 players, she earned a $600,000 payday and global recognition, becoming the Last Woman Standing in one of the most prestigious poker tournaments.
Her historic performance not only cemented her status as a poker icon but also brought visibility to women in the game. Cameras followed her at subsequent Main Events, and in 2016, she once again achieved the title of Last Woman Standing, finishing in 102nd place for $49,108.
Baumann’s legacy with Team Winamax extended beyond her tournament runs. From competing in the Winamax Poker Open to representing the brand on the brightest stages of poker, she became a central figure in the team’s success and reputation.
Reflecting on Her Time
In a heartfelt statement, Baumann shared her gratitude for the journey. “I am very happy to have lived this whole adventure. I was 26 when I joined the team. So much has happened!” she told Winamax. Despite her incredible career, Baumann admitted that she gradually lost the joy of playing poker.
“Being part of a team like Team Winamax means a lot of obligations,” she explained. “I’m completely OK with that—any job comes with its share of constraints—but it really ended up weighing on my motivation. I’m relieved to leave because it’s not what I liked doing anymore. But I’m lucky to have chosen my departure—it’s my decision, and everything ends on good terms.”
Life Beyond Poker
As she steps away from professional poker, Baumann is looking forward to new ventures. She plans to focus on family life, explore opportunities in real estate, and even try her hand at trading. While she’s leaving the professional circuit, she hasn’t ruled out occasional appearances, such as the Winamax Poker Tour finale or tournaments like SISMIX.
“I’m not nostalgic because I don’t feel like I’m fully leaving,” she said, indicating that poker will always remain a part of her life.
A Legacy Celebrated
Team Winamax Pro Manager Stéphane Matheu praised Baumann for her contributions to the team and the poker community. “She’s an emblematic figure of the team and has left a very big mark on the pro circuit and for Winamax. Everyone remembers 2012. This immediately established her as one of the most important and most publicized members of the team,” he said.
Fellow team member Pierre Calamusa called her departure bittersweet. “It’s a legend of the game who is leaving. When I think of her, my head is full of memories. I lose a friend; she was probably the person I was closest to in the team. I will miss her.”
The Poker World’s Loss
Baumann’s departure marks the end of an era for Team Winamax, where she was part of a roster that included poker greats like Adrian Mateos, Davidi Kitai, and Mustapha Kanit. Her professionalism, charisma, and achievements have left an indelible impact on the poker world.
As Baumann turns the page on this chapter of her life, she leaves behind a legacy of inspiration for women in poker and a career that will continue to be celebrated. While her focus shifts to new challenges, poker fans can take comfort in knowing that her story is far from over.