Hieu Ngoc Ma

Hieu Ngoc Ma, also known as “Tony Ma” or “The Animal,” is a prominent American professional poker player from South El Monte, California. With over $4.8 million in live tournament earnings, he has established himself as one of the top players in the game over the past decades.

Ma’s most notable achievement came in April 2005 when he secured first place at the Third Annual Five-Star World Poker Classic, earning a prize of $435,980. Additionally, he has won two World Series of Poker (WSOP) gold bracelets, both in Limit Hold’em, one in 1996 and the other in 2000.

Hieu Ngoc Ma: Early Life

Tony Ma was born on November 30, 1957, in Vietnam. In 1985, seeking a better life, he fled his home country and embarked on a challenging journey to find asylum in the United States. Upon arriving, Tony faced numerous obstacles but eventually found work as a welder and truck driver. In addition to his jobs, he developed a passion for games, particularly pai gow poker and dominos.

Shortly after settling in the U.S., he began playing poker, which would later become a significant part of his life. Over time, Tony gained recognition in California’s card rooms, and in 1996, he achieved his first major success in poker. Today, he resides in South El Monte, California, with his wife and two children. Outside of poker, Tony enjoys singing and dancing. He credits his growth as a poker player to observing and learning from those who were more skilled than he was.

Hieu Ngoc Ma: Live Tournament Participation

Tony Ma recorded his first live cash in February 1993, he placed 6th in a $500 + $30 Hold’em Shootout at the Poker Classic in Los Angeles, earning $3,455.

Following this early success, in May 1996, he won 1st place in a $5,000 Limit Hold’em event at the 27th World Series of Poker in Las Vegas, cashing $236,000 and earning a WSOP bracelet.

Moreover, in January 1999, Ma finished 2nd in the $5,000 + $80 Championship Event No Limit Hold’em at the Carnivale of Poker II in Las Vegas, which awarded him $192,850.

In addition, in April 2000, he won 1st place in the $2,000 + $70 Limit Hold’em event at the 31st World Series of Poker, earning $367,040 and another WSOP bracelet.

Furthermore, in April 2005, Ma secured 1st place in the $5,000 + $150 No Limit Hold’em event at the Third Annual Five-Star World Poker Classic in Las Vegas, taking home $435,980.

In September 2005, he again achieved 1st place in the $5,000 + $100 Championship Event No Limit Hold’em at the California State Poker Championship in Los Angeles, cashing $384,025.

Most recently, in July 2024, Ma participated in the $10,000 No Limit Hold’em Main Event at the 55th World Series of Poker in Las Vegas. He finished in 1190th place and cashed $17,500.

Conclusion

Hieu Ngoc Ma, has made a significant impact on the world of professional poker, with over $4.8 million in tournament earnings and two coveted WSOP gold bracelets. His remarkable journey from Vietnam to becoming a top player in the U.S. serves as an inspiration to many, showcasing resilience and passion for the game. As he continues to compete at the highest levels, Ma remains a prominent figure in the poker community, admired for both his skills and his dedication.