David Benyamine

David Benyamine, nicknamed “Degenyamine,” is a French professional poker player born in Paris. He has earned over $9 million in live poker tournaments, with his highest single cash totaling $1,087,924. He currently ranks 6th on France’s All-Time Money List.

Benyamine holds one World Series of Poker bracelet, which he won in 2008, and one WPT title, which he secured in 2003. He has also made appearances on High Stakes Poker.

Benyamine was a member of the now-defunct Full Tilt Poker team and was also sponsored by Mansion Poker.

David Benyamine: Early Life

Benyamine is a former professional tennis player. He was one of the top players in his country. However, a back injury forced him to quit tennis. That’s when he decided to take on a new path in the form of poker.

David Benyamine: Live Tournament Participation

David Benyamine first appeared in a recorded live tournament in June 1999. He took part in a €1,000 No Limit Hold’em event at the Summer Festival in Paris. He finished in 8th place and cashed for $222.

During the Summer Tournament in Paris in July 2003, he finished 1st place in a €10,000 Grand Prix de Paris. David won $410,886.

In June 2008, Benyamine achieved a significant milestone by winning in a $10,000 World Championship Omaha Hi/Lo Split at the 39th WSOP in Las Vegas. This victory secured him a grand prize of $535,687, as well as his first WSOP bracelet.

Continuing his success, Benyamine finished 3rd in an A$250,000 Super High Roller No Limit Hold’em event. He entered the Aussie Millions Poker Championship in Melbourne in January 2011. He earned his highest single cash of  $1,087,924.

Most recently, Benyamine attended the 55th WSOP in Las Vegas in July 2024. He placed 7th in a $25,000 Limit H.O.R.S.E. High Roller and collected $101,608.

David Benyamine’s Poker Journey in High Stakes Poker

Benyamine debuted on March 22nd, 2007, in HSP Season 5 Episode 4. He participated in a $400/800 +$200 ANTE ($1.6K) No Limit Hold ’em game with Barry Greenstein, Doyle Brunson, Eli Elezra, and others. Benyamine experienced his biggest loss ending the night down $53,000.

He returned to the tables in HSP Season 4 Episode 17 on December 14th, 2007. David played alongside Patrik Antonius, Antonio Esfandiari, Sam Farha, and others in a $300/600 +$100 ANTE ($1.2K) No Limit Hold ’em game. He achieved his biggest win with a whopping $249,200.

His most recent appearance was on April 23rd, 2010 in HSP Season 6 Episode 13. Benyamine engaged in a $400/800 +$200 ANTE ($1.6K) No Limit Hold ’em game with Tom Dwan, Daniel Negreanu, Phil Galfond, and others. At the end of the game, he incurred a $27,200 loss.

Conclusion

With over $9 million in live tournament earnings, a WSOP bracelet, and a WPT title, David Benyamine has transitioned from a tennis player to a leading figure in professional poker. His success in high-stakes games and major events highlights his dedication and prominence in the poker community.