The Lebanese-Australian professional poker player became known world-wide after, as a complete unknown, he came from a field of 5600 players to win the WSOP main event, and $7.5 million in prize money.
Queenstown Times reporter Joe Dodgshun had a chance for a quick chat.
Q This week saw an early exit from the Queenstown tournament. What happened?
A It is very frustrating but you cannot win every poker tournament. I was just unlucky with a couple of hands, but that is poker ... I am looking forward to my next tournament [for] a chance of redemption.
Q What are your immediate plans?
A I am going back to my family in Melbourne and then it is on to London for the EPT [European Poker Tour] event over there.
Q At what point did you decide to become a professional poker player?
A It had always been something I had loved doing, but it was only after my Main Event victory that I was able to seriously consider poker as a way of supporting my family.
Q How has life changed for you since winning the World Series of Poker in 2005?
A It has been amazing. I have been able to see and do so much. Poker has given me a lot over the last few years and I am very grateful for that.
Q What does the life of a professional poker player involve?
A You need to work very hard at your game, I am constantly working on improvement. I play poker online most days and there is a lot of travel involved. This will be my second trip to Europe this year and I have been in the States four times this year.
Q What does the rest of 2011 hold for you?
A More poker tournaments and hopefully some more great victories. One thing you are always doing is working to stay at the top of the game.
Q What are your thoughts about Queenstown, and will you be back?
A I think Queenstown is charming and very beautiful. I definitely will come back and I want to bring my whole family next time to really enjoy everything this great area has to offer.
