Canada’s poker surge: High-stakes events and record wins

Canada’s 2025 poker boom: Record prizes and global tournaments reshape the game

Canada’s poker scene flourished in 2025, with major cities hosting high-stakes poker events and record-breaking prize pools. From Calgary to Toronto, players converged on tournaments, while local poker rooms expanded their offerings. The year also garnered international attention, as Canada cemented its status as a prime destination for competitive poker.

Casino Regina in Saskatchewan became a magnet for poker enthusiasts, reporting a surge in activity. Meanwhile, Calgary’s Ace Grande poker room introduced innovative tournament formats, providing local players with more ways to compete. Cities like Montreal, Toronto, and Regina remained top destinations for both recreational and professional poker players.

The Deerfoot poker room in Calgary stood out by awarding over $12 million in prizes throughout the year. Nearby, the Playground poker club surpassed $4 million in total winnings distributed to players. Toronto also made headlines by securing a stop on the World Series of Poker Circuit (WSOP-C), attracting competitors from around the globe. On the competitive front, Canadian poker player Malm claimed the API Player of the Year title for the second year in a row. The success extended beyond poker, as Juventus forward Jonathan David took home the Canada Soccer Men’s Player of the Year award—his second consecutive and third overall. However, not all developments were smooth: Alberta explored the idea of a closed poker system, which could reshape how poker games are organized in the province.

The 2025 poker season underscored Canada’s growing influence in the game, with major prize pools and international events. Cities like Calgary and Toronto solidified their status as key poker hubs, while players like Malm and Jonathan David earned top honours in their respective fields. The year’s activity points to a promising future for poker and sports recognition across the country.