A fairytale run
The poker world watched in awe as the final day of the record-breaking Triton Invitational played out. With an astronomical 200.000$ buy-in, the event drew 133 elite players and high-stakes businessmen. Among them was Aleksa Pavicevic, who registered at the last minute. His original plan? Just a quick getaway. “I came here for a mini vacation, to catch up with friends and soak in the atmosphere. I didn’t expect to get far,” Pavicevic admitted.
What followed was pure poker magic. Despite being surrounded by seasoned pros like Seth Davies, Taylor Von Kriegenbergh, and Ramin Hajiyev, it was the Montenegrin amateur who stole the spotlight. After carving his way through the field, he found himself on the final table—where the real drama began.
Kings vs Aces: The hand that changed everything
Shortly before heads-up, the key moment of the tournament occurred. It was without a doubt the showdown between Pavicevic’s K d K c and Ismayilov’s A h A d—145 big blinds in the pot. Javid Ismayilov shoved all-in and Pavicevic called. After a flop of 4 d 4 s J h it looked that the home player would be left with just two big blinds, but the turn K h turned the whole tournament upside down. River 3 c changed nothing and Pavicevic entered the heads-up with a massive lead.
A final showdown packed with drama
Veteran pro Seth Davies wasn’t ready to fold just yet. Despite starting heads-up with a 1:11 chip disadvantage, he battled back with three double-ups, nearly completing one of the most dramatic comebacks of the year.
In the final hand, Pavicevic limped from the button with 5 h 2 h, Davies checked his K h 3 d. The flop K d 7 h 3 s made two pair for Davies and a continuation of the sensation loomed. The turn A h gave Pavicevic a flush and straight draw. After a series of bets, the river T h completed the flush. Pavicevic shoved all-in and after a long tank, Davies called. “I got it,” Pavicevic said as he revealed his cards—and sealed the win.
Final Table – Results:
|
Position |
Player |
Country |
Winnings |
|
1. |
Aleksa Pavicevic |
Montenegro |
$6,180,000 |
|
2. |
Seth Davies |
USA |
$4,190,000 |
|
3. |
Javid Ismayilov |
Azerbaijan |
$2,793,000 |
|
4. |
Eric Wasserson |
USA |
$2,287,000 |
|
5. |
Taylor Von Kriegenbergh |
USA |
$1,835,000 |
|
6. |
Maher Nouira |
Tunisia |
$1,423,000 |
|
7. |
Ramin Hajiyev |
Azerbaijan |
$1,053,000 |
|
8. |
Joni Jouhkimainen |
Finland |
$774,000 |
|
9. |
Thomas Santerne |
France |
$617,000 |
Triton Poker continues to prove why it's synonymous with luxury, prestige, and top-tier competition. But it also remains a stage where new stars can shine the brightest. Pavicevic’s unexpected victory is living proof that courage and pure love for the game can outshine even the biggest names in the industry.
“I wasn’t planning on winning anything,” he said. “I just came to enjoy the sun and the vibe.”
Source: Triton Poker Series, YouTube