Poker's Annie

Poker's Annie Duke

The men of poker are watching their backs more and more these days, and the reason behind that may just be Annie Duke. Many would agree to Phil Helmuth's statement that Annie Duke is the best female all around player at present. However, Annie Duke does not want to be only the best female poker player, she intends to be the best poker player. Period. No gender or whatsoever.

It is said that Annie Duke has learned to play poker from her brother Howard Lederer - an equally famous poker player himself. Even if she was taught how to play poker by her brother, how to be good at poker she has learned from herself. A psychology graduate who also finished English with a Phd, she has good analytical skills. She practiced and honed her skills at the poker tables in her town and slowly climbed the ladder of fame and victory in the world of poker.

Having entered the male-dominated poker world, she continues to struggle for women equality by proving that she is a good poker player, even if she's a female. Usually, she does not play at female poker divisions. However, she accepted to be in the First World Poker Tour Ladies Night Invitational. She did not win though, and many believed that it is because she was not in her competitive shape that time. It is known that she prefers to play at poker events where both men and women play. Clearly, she wants to prove that she can beat the best poker players in the world, men and women alike.

For a time, she tutored the famous actor Ben Affleck and helped him win the $10,000 California State Poker Championship No Limit Hold'em tournament. It was held at the Commerce Casino and there, actor Ben Affleck won the first prize of $356,000.

Annie has not only earned the respect of her competitors but also has earned a lot money in poker. Among her countless winnings is the 2 million dollars cash prize at the September 2004 ESPN World Series of Poker Tournament of Champions.