PokerStars Dominates the Sixth Annual Global Poker Awards in 2025

The Sixth Annual Global Poker Awards, held at the PokerGO Studio at ARIA Las Vegas, brought together the biggest names in poker to celebrate excellence in the industry. Hosted by Drea Renee and Jeff Platt, the event honored 38 exceptional individuals and organizations, showcasing the continued evolution of poker and its growing global influence. Among the night’s biggest winners, PokerStars took center stage, further solidifying its position as a dominant force in the industry.

PokerStars Leads with Multiple Awards

PokerStars had a stellar night at the 2025 Global Poker Awards, taking home several prestigious accolades:

• Benjamin Spragg won Best Streamer, marking his second career win in this category. His engaging Twitch streams and deep poker insights have made him a fan favorite.
• Marle Spragg was honored as the Best Short-Form Content Creator, reflecting her witty and insightful poker videos that resonate with both casual fans and serious players.
• Francine Watson, an instrumental figure behind PokerStars’ global success, earned the Best Industry Person award.
• The Big Game on Tour, an innovative PokerStars production, was named Best Episodic Poker Series, capturing the excitement of high-stakes poker action.

These wins underscore PokerStars’ continued dominance in both online and live poker, reinforcing its influence on the modern poker landscape.

A Night of Recognition for Poker’s Best

The Global Poker Awards is not just about recognizing corporate success; it also shines a light on the individuals who make poker exciting, competitive, and engaging. Here are some of the key winners from the night:

• Player’s Choice for Toughest Opponent: Adrian Mateos, a feared competitor at any table, was voted the toughest opponent by fellow professionals.
• Best Stand-Alone Poker Festival: The Irish Poker Open won this prestigious category, highlighting its reputation as one of Europe’s most anticipated poker festivals.
• Best Poker Live Stream: Poker at the Lodge, a popular and entertaining poker stream, claimed the top prize for live streaming.
• Best Final Table Performance: Barny Boatman’s masterful play at EPT Paris earned him the award for best final table performance.
• Best Vlogger: Brad Owen, a pioneer in poker vlogging, secured his third career win in this category, reflecting his sustained impact on poker content creation.
• Best Journalist: Brad Willis (Poker.org), recognized for his insightful reporting and storytelling, took home the journalism award.

One of the most touching moments of the night came from Cherish Andrews, who won her second award and dedicated it to her late brother, making for an emotional and heartfelt speech that resonated with the entire poker community.

The Global Poker Index and The Hendon Mob: Elevating Poker’s Legacy

The Global Poker Index (GPI) and The Hendon Mob (THM) continue to play a pivotal role in poker’s recognition as a professional sport. These organizations ensure that top poker talents and rising stars receive the accolades they deserve, further legitimizing the game on a global scale. As the Oscars of Poker, the Global Poker Awards set the standard for recognizing excellence in the industry.

Why the Global Poker Awards Matter

Events like the Global Poker Awards are crucial for maintaining poker’s competitive spirit and celebrating those who contribute to its evolution. Whether it’s players dominating the felt, content creators expanding poker’s reach, or industry figures driving innovation, these awards highlight the diversity and depth of poker talent. They also inspire the next generation of poker players, media professionals, and tournament organizers to strive for excellence.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Poker in 2025 and Beyond

As poker continues to grow in popularity, platforms like PokerStars, along with content creators and professional players, will play a pivotal role in shaping the industry. With innovations in poker streaming, mobile gaming, and international events, the future of poker looks brighter than ever. The Global Poker Awards will undoubtedly return in 2026, celebrating even more milestones and achievements in the game.

Conclusion

The Sixth Annual Global Poker Awards showcased the very best in poker, from elite players and content creators to industry pioneers. With PokerStars leading the charge, the poker world remains as dynamic and competitive as ever. As we move forward into 2025, one thing is clear: poker’s influence continues to expand, and its biggest contributors deserve to be celebrated.

Sources:

• PokerNews: Sixth Annual Global Poker Awards