Who Are South Africa's Most Famous Poker Players and How Much Have They Won?
Poker has become a global phenomenon, and South Africa has produced several exceptional players who have made their mark on the international stage. From record-breaking wins to consistent performances in top tournaments, South African poker players have shown their skill and determination. Here’s a look at five of the best South African poker players who have stood out over the years, celebrated for their achievements at the tables.
1. Raymond Rahme
Raymond Rahme is undoubtedly South Africa’s most accomplished poker player. His claim to fame came at the 2007 World Series of Poker (WSOP) Main Event, where he made an impressive final table appearance. Rahme advanced from a field of 6,358 players to secure a fourth-place finish, earning over $3 million. His calm and reserved demeanor at the table earned him respect, and he remained largely in the background during early stages, capitalizing on strategic moments to eliminate opponents. Although Rahme’s poker presence has become less frequent in recent years, his legacy is firmly established, with over $3.5 million in career earnings, including victories in various international events.
Career Stats:
Total Live Earnings: $3,546,346
Best Live Cash: $3,048,025
South Africa’s All-Time Money List: 1st
2. Ronit Chamani
Ronit Chamani has also been a key figure in the South African poker scene. In 2013 and 2014, she enjoyed a breakout run, accumulating nearly $400,000 in tournament earnings. Her most notable win came at the WPT Bay 101 Shooting Stars, where she took home $152,080, her largest cash to date. Chamani is well-known for her skill in high roller events and her consistent performance at tournaments around the globe. After spending over a decade in the poker world, she has decided to settle down in Israel but continues to compete occasionally.
Career Stats:
Total Live Earnings: $664,775
Best Live Cash: $152,080
South Africa’s All-Time Money List: 8th
3. Warren Zackey
Warren Zackey, a consistent force in South African poker, is best known for his deep run at the 2009 WSOP Main Event, where he finished 22nd and earned $352,832. Over the years, Zackey has found success in his home country, particularly at events like the WSOP Circuit, where he claimed the Emerald Resort & Casino Main Event title for $222,477 in 2010. Though his earnings have slowed down in recent years, his steady presence at the tables and his ability to perform in major events have cemented his status as one of South Africa’s poker elite.
Career Stats:
Total Live Earnings: $834,572
Best Live Cash: $352,832
South Africa’s All-Time Money List: 4th
4. Jarred Solomon
Jarred Solomon has been the most consistent South African grinder in recent years. A fixture in both live and online tournaments, Solomon’s career has been marked by steady earnings and strong results. His biggest achievement came in 2011 when he finished second in the WSOP $10,000 Pot-Limit Hold'em Championship, earning $404,653. Although he was narrowly denied a gold bracelet, this result brought him widespread recognition. In 2018, Solomon had his best year in recent times, with over $162,000 in earnings. Solomon continues to be a regular participant at top-tier events, representing South Africa on the international poker circuit.
Career Stats:
Total Live Earnings: $1,276,895
Best Live Cash: $354,460
South Africa’s All-Time Money List: 2nd
5. Eugene Du-Plessis
Eugene Du-Plessis is another South African player known for his consistent performance on the live poker circuit. While he may not have a single defining win like some of his peers, his ability to consistently cash in events has made him a respected name in the poker world. Du-Plessis’ best result came in 2013 when he finished as a runner-up in the WPT Emperor's Palace Poker Classic Main Event for $92,708. He has also earned over $130,000 in cashes at the WSOP, with regular appearances in major poker festivals across South Africa and beyond.
Career Stats:
Total Live Earnings: $689,036
Best Live Cash: $92,708
South Africa’s All-Time Money List: 7th
Conclusion
These five players represent the pinnacle of South African poker talent, with each carving out a successful career in the competitive world of poker. Whether through a breakthrough run at the WSOP or consistent cashes in high-stakes events, they have demonstrated what it takes to compete at the highest levels of the game. With their continued success, South African poker remains a force to be reckoned with on the global stage.