Prize money worthy of major live tournaments is now being achieved by players in online tournaments, as this week’s $645,000 win by German online player “tobi123456” has illustrated.
Playing in the $10,300 buy-in NLHE (8-Max, Optional Re-Entry, High-Roller) event, the German player found himself at a 3 to 1 chip disadvantage in the heads up against the vastly experienced Andrew “RunThisTable” Lichtenberger.
Displaying remarkable patience and ability, “tobi123456” managed to not only overcome the deficit but move into a convincing lead, although Lichtenberger gave him a few bad moments as he fought back strongly, winning five straight all-ins at one point.
It was not enough to stave off defeat, however, and Lichtenberger had to be content with a still impressive second placing pay-day of $484,500.
Other big money prizes went to third-placed Alexandros “mexican222” Kolonias ($365,500) and Billy “b8chatz” Chattaway ($263,500).
This year’s 70-event Pokerstars World Championship of Online Poker has almost reached the half-way point, with the flagship event – the $5,200 buy-in Main Event offering a $10 million guaranteed prize pool – due to start on September 27.