Biography
Born on July 5, 1972, in Paris, France, David Benyamine is a celebrated name in the world of Poker. Benyamine's childhood included a keen interest in games, which later evolved into a passion for poker. His early experiences in a vibrant city like Paris, surrounded by diverse cultures and communities, contributed to his social skills and competitive spirit.
David has claimed a WSOP bracelet and won over $9 million in live tournament earnings. He lives in Henderson, Nevada, and continues to excel in the game. He is known for his expertise in high-stakes cash games and impressive tournament circuit achievements.
Background
With a background that spans professional tennis, billiards, and poker, Benyamine’s gaming journey is fascinating and inspiring. He has been passionate about sports and poker. His journey in gaming started with professional tennis, but after an injury, he shifted his focus to billiards, achieving top rankings before turning to poker at age 12. He began playing poker in his teenage years, quickly developing his skills and understanding of the game. Benyamine's poker career flourished at the Aviation Club de France, and he became a prominent player in Bobby's Room at the Bellagio.
His journey from a young card player to a renowned professional in the poker community was marked by dedication and a desire to succeed, which was instilled in him from a young age.
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 globally among the regulars of elite high-stakes cash games. 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)
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 in televised poker tournaments and cash games.
World Series of Poker (WSOP)
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 ($265,054) in 2024.
World Series of Poker Bracelet
Year |
Tournament |
Prize (US$) |
---|---|---|
2008 |
$10,000 Omaha Hi-Low Split |
$535,687 |
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 180th, with a best rank of 40th. In France, he is positioned 6th on the all-time money list. His Global Poker Index ranking is 3,294th, and he holds the 86th in popularity rankings.
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. He secured a WSOP bracelet five, 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.