MPF: The Grand Event Crowns Champion, Joris Ruijs Takes Home €141,000 with No Deal

As reported yesterday, the autumn edition of the Malta Poker Festival boasted a remarkably packed tournament with a prizepool of €903,498. The initial days saw a total of 1,987 entries (the second-largest in MPF history), which eventually narrowed down to a final table of eight, each vying for the coveted victory.

The final table was not about slowly grinding away at blinds – quite the opposite, it featured quick eliminations, dramatic swings, and several coolers. In just five hours, the champion was revealed. Early on, positions shifted, short stacks found their double-ups, with Serbian Toni Ravnak taking the lead in the initial levels by winning key pots. However, he had to settle for fourth place with a reward of €47,220.

The unofficial bronze medal went to Sweden, thanks to Thomas Grahs (€61,560). Joris Ruijs knocked him out, which propelled Ruijs into the heads-up against Germany's Vincent Schueler with nearly a 4:1 chip lead.

Ultimately, the match concluded swiftly and without much tension for the Dutchman. Schueler couldn't manage a double-up, and within 15 minutes, it was over. On the turn 4 h 6 d 7 s A c, both players went all-in, with Ruijs holding A d T d, ahead of his opponent with 8 d 7 c. The river 2 d failed to deliver for the German player, leaving him in second place and earning €86,420.

The Dutch champion, without any deal, secured the full prize of €141,000. According to the Hendon Mob database, Joris Ruijs has over $4.2 million in live earnings, with a career best from 2018 ($571,043). Following the win, he appeared relaxed and stated in an interview that he remains loyal to poker regardless of buy-in or field type, viewing each new event as a fresh adventure with many more to come.

Final Table Results:

Sources – YouTube, PokerNews