Dan Smith, a name synonymous with poker success, has once again proven his prowess at the poker table. Having clinched titles at the biggest series, such as the World Series of Poker bracelet, World Poker Tour, and numerous EPT tournaments, Smith has now also etched his name on the prestigious Triton series. Winning the $200,000 buy-in Triton Invitational in Monte Carlo, he pocketed $3.87 million.
58 players started the event, and with 15 additional re-entries, the prize pool reached an impressive $14.6 million. The invitational was nothing short of a roller-coaster, marked by intense play from both seasoned pros and adept recreational players. Danish businessman Theis Vad Hennebjerre was the one inviting him to the tournament, and while his run ended early, Smith went all the way.
Elton Tsang, a notable high roller, dominated the initial stages, ensuring numerous competitors met their tournament end at his hands. But the narrative shifted as the final table came into focus. Mario Mosböck, an Austrian former football pro who transitioned into a poker professional, took a considerable chip lead into the closing stages.
Yet, in the heads-up match, Smith gradually regained his ground and proved his mettle, finally seizing the title.
“It’s different when you win a tournament with 70 players like this. It’s one of the biggest events of the year, and only so many guys get to win them,” Smith revealed post-victory. “Some days, you feel the moment, and this tournament kind of felt good. When I had a moment, I just got a good run of cards.”
He added: “People have this idea that pros always know what to do…but sometimes you’re just hoping others collide and bust out.”
This marks Dan’s third-largest career cash, propelling him tantalizingly close to the $50 million milestone. Only five players have surpassed this mark so far: Bryn Kenney at $65 million, Justin Bonomo with $62 million, followed by Chidwick at $54 million, and both Koon and Negreanu each with $51 million.
You can watch the replay of the final table below.
2023 Triton Monte Carlo Invitational Final Table Results
| Place | Player | Country | Prize |
| 1 | Dan Smith | USA | $3,870,000 |
| 2 | Mario Mosböck | Austria | $2,690,000 |
| 3 | Elton Tsang | Hong Kong | $1,780,000 |
| 4 | Jean Noel Thorel | France | $1,390,000 |
| 5 | Alexander Shelukhin | Russia | $1,125,000 |
| 6 | Danny Tang | Hong Kong | $875,000 |
| 7 | Fedor Holz | Germany | $694,000 |
| 8 | Ilkin Gabrili | Azerbaijan | $540,000 |
| 9 | Bob Voulgaris | Canada | $406,000 |
