David Benyamine- Poker Player

Introduction

David Benyamine is a name that resonates deeply within the Poker community. He is known for his expertise in high-stakes cash games and his impressive achievements on the tournament circuit.

Here’s your complete guide on this legendary Poker Player.

Who is David Benyamine?

David Benyamine, born on July 5, 1972, in Paris, France, is a celebrated name in the world of Poker. With a background that spans professional tennis, billiards, and poker, Benyamine’s gaming journey is fascinating and inspiring.

David Benyamine's Background & Early Life

A passion for sports and games of skill marked David Benyamine's early life. Initially, he pursued a career in professional tennis, but shoulder pain forced him to retire from the sport. Undeterred, Benyamine turned his attention to billiards, where he achieved massive success, ranking among the top ten players in France.

Poker entered Benyamine's life at 12, setting the stage for his future success.

Poker Career

David Benyamine's journey as a poker player took off when he started participating in No Limit Hold'em cash games at the Aviation Club de France. His proficiency and tactful methods quickly garnered recognition from fellow players, earning him a place among the regulars of elite high-stakes cash games globally. His frequent appearances in Bobby's Room (renamed Legend's Room) within Bellagio Casino attest to his prominent status within this elite poker community.

World Poker Tour (WPT) Achievements

Benyamine's live Poker tournament cashes date back to June 1999. His early successes included several five-figure scores in 2000, including a notable $48,944 cash. All his results from 1999 through February 2022 were achieved in Paris-based events.

Benyamine's inaugural major victory came in July 2003 with a win at the €10,000 WPT Grand Prix de Paris, pocketing him an impressive €357,200 ($410,886). He continued his success by placing sixth and bringing home $132.355 at the $10.000 World Poker Tour (WPT) L.A Poker Classic shortly after this accomplishment. After abstaining from Poker for four years, Benyamine rejoined to secure himself another grand prize of $120,00 during Week 9 of Poker After Dark Season III. His unique style as a loose-aggressive player made him popular amongst televised poker tourneys and cash games alike.

WSOP Achievements 

Benyamine’s performances at the 2008 World Series of Poker (WSOP) were outstanding. He finished 10th, 7th, and 3rd in the $5,000 Stud Hi-Lo, No-Limit 2-7, and Pot-Limit Omaha (PLO) events, respectively, before winning his first WSOP bracelet in the $10,000 Omaha Hi-Lo 8 or Better event, earning $535,687. His total WSOP cash that summer amounted to $941,651. He also finished second in the $15,400 WPT Bellagio Cup IV for $840,295. Benyamine ended 2008 with deep runs in the £5,400 EPT London Main Event ($65,720) and the £20,300 High Roller ($126,346).

At the 2011 Aussie Millions, Benyamine earned his first seven-figure prize of $1,087,927, finishing third in the A$250,000 Super High Roller. In 2013, he finished third in the $50,000 Poker Players Championship at the WSOP, earning $497,122.

Between 2013 and today, Benyamine has focused primarily on WSOP tournaments. He has continued to post impressive results, including a third-place finish in the 2021 $25,000 H.O.R.S.E. ($236,626), sixth place in the 2021 $25,000 PLO High Roller ($205,655), and a fifth-place finish in the $50,000 Poker Players Championship ($265,054) in 2024.

Poker Statistics

As of 2020, David Benyamine’s total live earnings stand at an impressive $9,048,798, with his best live cash amounting to $1,087,924. On the all-time money list, he currently ranks 166th, with a best rank of 40th. In France, he is positioned 6th on the all-time money list. His Global Poker Index ranking is 1,462nd, and he holds the 85th in popularity rankings.

Personal Life

David Benyamine currently resides in Henderson, Nevada. He is a dedicated father to his daughter and was previously engaged to professional poker and blackjack player Erica Schoenberg. The couple has since separated. Despite his public persona, Benyamine maintains a relatively private life, focusing on his career and personal interests.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is David Benyamine known for?

David Benyamine is known for his exceptional skills in high-stakes poker, particularly in Pot-Limit Omaha. He has earned accolades in cash games and tournaments, including a WSOP bracelet and multiple high-profile tournament finishes.

How did David Benyamine start his poker career?

Having initiated his Poker pursuits with No-Limit Hold 'em cash games held at the Aviation Club de France, Benyamine quickly gained popularity and strategic expertise. He soon emerged as a notable personality in high-stakes poker events, primarily in Bobby's Room, situated within Bellagio premises.

What are some of David Benyamine's major tournament wins?

Benyamine triumphed in the €10,000 WPT Grand Prix de Paris in 2003. Five years later, he secured a WSOP bracelet, winning the $10,000 Omaha Hi-Lo 8 or Better tournament in 2008. In 2011, Benyamine dominated the high-profile Aussie Millions event and took home a payout exceeding seven figures. Additionally, he put up an impressive performance with numerous deep runs across multiple events scheduled under the WSOP's banner.

Where does David Benyamine currently reside?

Living in Henderson, Nevada, David Benyamine prioritizes his career and personal pursuits yet remains a devoted father to his daughter.

Conclusion

David Benyamine’s journey from a professional tennis player and top billiards competitor to a high-stakes poker legend is a compelling story of talent, perseverance, and passion. His accomplishments on the World Poker Tour and the World Series of Poker highlight his exceptional skill and strategic acumen. As he continues influencing the poker world, Benyamine's legacy as a remarkable and versatile player remains firmly established.