Bertrand “ElkY” Grospellier, a name synonymous with success in both the competitive gaming and poker worlds, has once again proven his enduring prowess on the felt. Despite his own modest claims of not being at his peak performance, ElkY’s recent victory at the Asian Poker Tour Taiwan $25,000 buy-in Superstar Challenge signals that the French poker pro remains a formidable force in the poker realm.
Showcasing his composure on the final table, which he started as one of the shortest stacks and remained until heads up, ElkY managed to outlast a field of 49 players to clinch the title and the TWD 11.63 million (~USD 367,000) prize, the largest ever awarded at a Taiwanese poker event. This win not only underscored his mastery of the game but also marked his first APT championship, adding another accolade to his storied career.
I really wanted it. I came close twice in Hanoi and Incheon and now finally winning it – I feel so great – it’s the best thing ever!
The journey to the top at the Superstar Challenge was far from easy. ElkY found himself facing a significant chip deficit during the final head-to-head battle. Yet he managed to overturn this disadvantage and secure the victory. This comeback was particularly sweet, as it awarded him the much-coveted Black Lion Superstar Challenge Trophy, a symbol of poker excellence he had long sought after.
ElkY’s poker career, highlighted by earnings that now approximate ~USD 15.4 million, reflects his remarkable transition from a world-class gamer to a poker superstar. His strategic acumen, honed in the virtual arenas of StarCraft, has translated seamlessly to the poker table, where he continues to demonstrate his capability to compete with the best.
Despite the accolades and his latest triumph, ElkY maintains a humble perspective on his current standing in the game. “I’m so thankful to everyone who always supports and cheers for me even though I’m far from the best player now. So many people, especially in Taipei and Asia, always give me such a warm welcome and I’m so happy to come here and be able to win,” he shared, reflecting on the support that has buoyed his career.
His humility notwithstanding, ElkY’s consistent performance and recent victory speak volumes. They not only highlight his undiminished skill but also his passion for the game. “I really wanted it. I came close twice in Hanoi and Incheon and now finally winning it – I feel so great – it’s the best thing ever!” ElkY remarked on his victory.
Final Table Results
| Result | Player | Country | Prize (TWD) | Prize (USD) |
| 1st | Bertrand “ElkY” Grospellier | France | TWD 11,632,810.00 | $ 372,249.92 |
| 2nd | Lester Edoc | Philippines | TWD 8,402,000.00 | $ 268,864.00 |
| 3rd | Roman Hrabec | Czech Republic | TWD 5,355,000.00 | $ 171,360.00 |
| 4th | Biao Ding | Hong Kong | TWD 4,062,000.00 | $ 129,984.00 |
| 5th | Klemens Roiter | Austria | TWD 3,139,000.00 | $ 100,448.00 |
| 6th | Daniel Tang | Hong Kong | TWD 2,401,000.00 | $ 76,832.00 |
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