Juha Helppi

Juha Helppi is an Finnish professional poker player from Helsinki, Finland, with over $9 million in live tournament earnings. His best live cash of $524,911 came in his most recent live participation. He finished in 5th place at the 55th WSOP in Las Vegas in June 2024. Throughout his poker career, he has won two WSOP bracelets and one WPT title.

Helppi secured his first WSOP bracelet at the 50th WSOP in July 2019 and won his second bracelet in WSOP Online in July 2020. Additionally, he earned his WPT title at the Ultimate Bet Poker Classic in October 2002.

Juha Helppi: Early Life

Juha Helppi, born on March 4th, 1977 in Turku, Finland, grew up with a passion for sports. As a child, he showed considerable talent in soccer, but his real achievements came in paintball. Helppi’s paintball team, under his leadership as captain, won the Finnish national championship five times.

Helppi’s journey into poker began At 21 while working as a casino dealer. His friends introduced him to the game. His curiosity led him to explore various forms of poker, including online versions, there he immersed himself in learning through books and practice. This growing interest quickly turned into a serious pursuit.

His efforts soon bore fruit when he made a splash in the poker world by winning the first-ever World Poker Tour event in Aruba. Today, Helppi lives in Helsinki with his girlfriend and their son, having established a strong reputation in poker through his hard work and growing expertise.

Juha Helppi: Live Tournament Participation

Helppi competed in the FIM 5,000 + 300 Hold’em Helsinki Freezeout in Helsinki in December 2001. He finished in 3rd place and earned $5,316.

Following this, Helppi showcased his skills at the 37th World Series of Poker (WSOP) in Las Vegas in July 2006. He played in the $1,000 No Limit Hold’em event, where he achieved 2nd place and received $331,144.

Subsequently, Helppi participated in the European Poker Tour (EPT) in Prague in December 2014. He took part in the €48,500 + 1,500 No Limit Hold’em Super High Roller, finishing in 4th place and earning $330,933.

The following year, in December 2016, he again competed in the EPT Prague, this time in the €48,500 + 1,500 No Limit Hold’em Super High Roller. He earned 3rd place and a prize of $360,186.

Moreover, Helppi entered the $10,000 Limit Hold’em Championship at the 50th World Series of Poker (WSOP) in Las Vegas in July 2019. He emerged victorious, securing 1st place, $306,622, and a WSOP bracelet.

Most recently, in June 2024, he participated in the $25,000 Pot Limit Omaha – High Roller – 8-Handed event at the 55th WSOP in Las Vegas. He finished 5th and received $524,911.

Conclusion

Juha Helppi’s poker career features notable achievements, including two WSOP bracelets and a WPT title. His recent 5th-place finish at the 55th WSOP highlights his continued skill and dedication. From a successful paintball player to a leading poker professional, Helppi’s journey reflects his commitment and adaptability in the game.