APT Championship: Sharma Claims Main Event Title and $1.2 Million Prize

The APT Championship Taipei Main Event surpassed all expectations with a massive turnout of 671 entries, becoming one of the largest in the series' history. Indian professional Nishant Sharma emerged victorious, taking home not only the title but also the largest prize in APT history – TWD 37,030,773 (~$1,198,405).

Nishant Sharma Triumphs in Record-Breaking APT Main Event

The record-setting APT Main Event Championship in Taipei has crowned its champion. Indian professional Nishant Sharma conquered the vast field of 671 entries, earning TWD 37,030,773 (~$1,198,405), the largest prize ever in the history of the Asian Poker Tour.

Starting the final table as the chipleader, Sharma steadily increased his lead. The final table featured a truly world-class lineup, particularly with European players showcasing their skills. Ultimately, it was an all-Asian heads-up showdown. Joining Sharma was Filipino John Niko Costiniano, who may not have captured his third APT title but was undoubtedly pleased with his record-breaking TWD 22.86 million (~$739,895) prize.

In the decisive hand, it appeared Costiniano might narrow the gap. With J♠ 3♣, he hit a set on the flop 6♥ 3♠ 3♥. After the turn Q♥, he went all-in, and Sharma called with K♠ K♥. The river A♥ delivered the flush Sharma needed, sealing his victory.

Final Table Results: APT Main Event Championship

Place	Player	Country	Prize
1.	Nishant Sharma	India	$1,198,405
2.	John Niko Costiniano	Philippines	$739,895
3.	Alexandru Papazian	Romania	$528,855
4.	Dominik Nitsche	Germany	$405,120
5.	Neng Zhao	Australia	$320,955
6.	Hao Shan Huang	Taiwan	$249,980
7.	Hao Chuang	Taiwan	$182,145
8.	Matas Cimbolas	Lithuania	$124,490
9.	Martin Finger	Germany	$98,610

Nevan Chang Dominates Massive Mini Main Event, Secures Ninth APT Title

The Mini Main Event with a TWD 35,000 (~$1,120) buy-in was only "mini" in name. The four starting flights attracted a colossal 1,603 entries, making it the third-largest tournament of the festival. The champion was none other than Natural8 ambassador Yu Chung “Nevan” Chang.

Advancing to the final day were 227 players, all guaranteed a minimum payout of $1,734. However, the massive prizepool of TWD 48,474,720 (~$1,542,396) and a seven-figure payday for the winner were up for grabs. The final table was loaded with talent, including notables like Rob Hollink, Justin Chu, and Raiden Kan, who began as the chipleader.

After a grueling day lasting over 20 levels, the Pewter Lion trophy was claimed by the local contender. Chang first secured a heads-up deal with Joel Singam, then successfully clinched the trophy, marking his ninth APT title with a prize of TWD 7,085,620 (~$227,100), his new personal best.

Place	Player	Country	Prize
1.	Yu Chung “Nevan” Chang	Taiwan	$227,100
2.	Joel Justin Singam	Malaysia	$200,320
3.	Justin Chu	Taiwan	$108,020
4.	Robertus Hollink	Netherlands	$78,575
5.	Raiden Kan	Malaysia	$62,200
6.	Chang Fu Hung	Taiwan	$48,720
7.	Kwok Chun Ng	Hong Kong	$37,255
8.	Wei Kai Lin	Taiwan	$26,310
9.	Kim Soobum	South Korea	$20,140

While the Main Event and Mini Main Event have crowned their champions, the APT Championship Taipei continues until November 30. Players can still compete in a host of exciting side events and high rollers. The festival offers more chances to vie for titles, trophies, and massive prizes.

For complete reports, interviews, results, and extensive photo galleries, visit our partner SoMuchPoker, which provides detailed coverage throughout the festival.

Sources: SoMuchPoker, Asian Poker Tour, The Hendon Mob