Leon Menezes Claims First APT Title for India in Manila Omaholic Event
Leon Lionel Menezes captured his first APT Title
Indian poker talent Leon Menezes has made a stunning mark at the Asian Poker Tour (APT) Manila, securing his first APT title with a win in the popular Omaholic event. Menezes, a semi-professional player, bested 45 competitors in Event #75, taking home PHP 104,555 ($1,778).
The event unfolded at Manila’s City of Dreams, where Menezes faced off against Japan’s Masataka Morishita in a heated heads-up showdown. Morishita, who ultimately finished second, earned PHP 73,000 (~$1,240) for his efforts, while the Philippines’ Joshua Cordova rounded out the podium in third place with PHP 47,000 ($799). Other notable players at the final table included Anthony Wong, Batmunkh Lkhagvajamts, and Feridoun Farboud, each contributing to a competitive lineup.
2024 APT Manila Event #75 Omaholic Final Table Payouts
| Rank | Name | Prize |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Leon Lionel Menezes | PHP 104,555 |
| 2 | Masataka Morishita | PHP 73,000 |
| 3 | Joshua Cordova | PHP 47,000 |
| 4 | Anthony Wong | PHP 36,000 |
| 5 | Batmunkh Lkhagvajamts | PHP 28,000 |
| 6 | Feridoun Farboud | PHP 22,000 |
For Menezes, this victory represents not only his first major live cash but also an achievement that fuels the ambitions of countless aspiring players from India.
The APT Manila series, taking place in the Grand Ballroom of City of Dreams, kicked off on October 28 and will continue through November 7. With over PHP 170 million (~$3 million) in prize money up for grabs, this 11-day poker festival is a top attraction on Asia’s poker calendar. The current edition is the APT’s 42nd visit to Manila and features an impressive lineup of 101 trophy events, having already crowned over 70 winners. Known for its diverse formats and competitive structures, the series has been a magnet for international players looking to compete on one of Asia’s biggest stages.
As APT Manila enters its final stage, the buzz and anticipation around the remaining events continue to grow. For now, Leon Menezes’ victory serves as a proud moment for Indian poker and inspires a new wave of players eager to follow in his footsteps.
Source: theasianpokertour.com
