Mel Judah

Mel Judah, known as the “Silver Fox,” is a renowned Australian professional poker player from London, Australia. He has over $3.7 million in live tournament earnings. Judah won his first World Series of Poker (WSOP) bracelet in 1989 and followed with a second in 1997. His best live cash came in September 2003 when he won the WPT Main Event Legends of Poker in Los Angeles, earning $579,375.

Mel Judah: Early Life

Mel Judah was born on October 8, 1947, in Kolkata, India. He developed a passion for poker at the young age of 14. He was inspired by watching his father play Five Card Draw. His father taught him the technical aspects of the game. He emphasized the importance of winning the maximum while losing the minimum. Then Mel began playing cash games with friends. He quickly realized his natural flair and understanding of poker allowed him to outplay most of his opponents.

In 1964, Mel’s family moved to the United Kingdom. There, he decided to follow his mother’s profession. He trained to become a ladies’ hairstylist at the prestigious Vidal Sassoon in London. This career choice helped him develop strong social interaction skills.

In 1981, Mel and his family relocated to Australia. Shortly after, he took his first trip to Las Vegas, where he began to play poker professionally. Over the years, he carved out a niche for himself, winning various tournaments.

Mel Judah: Live Tournament Participation

Mel Judah’s first recorded live cash occurred in May 1988, he participated in the $1,000 Omaha Limit event at the 19th World Series of Poker in Las Vegas, finishing in 11th place and earning $2,280.

Then, in May 6th, 1997, he made a significant impact by winning the $5,000 Seven-Card Stud event at the 28th World Series of Poker, taking home $176,000 and a WSOP bracelet.

In the same series, in May 10th, 1997, he further excelled by placing 3rd in the $10,000 No Limit Hold’em World Championship, which earned him an impressive $371,000.

Following this success, on September 2003, Judah won the $5,000 + $80 No Limit Hold’em Main Event at the Legends of Poker in Los Angeles, cashing $579,375.

In December 2006, he continued his strong performance by finishing 4th in the restricted entry Poker Million V, where he cashed $150,000.

Years after, in June 2013, he placed 2nd in the $3,000 Pot Limit Omaha Hi/Lo event at the 44th World Series of Poker, earning $172,361.

In a recent appearance in June 2024, he participated in the $2,500 Mixed Games: Omaha 8 or Better/Stud 8 or Better at the 55th World Series of Poker, finishing in 55th place and cashing $5,000.

Conclusion

Mel Judah had an impressive career in poker, winning two World Series of Poker bracelets and earning over $3.7 million. His journey from a young player in Kolkata to a well-known professional in Australia shows his hard work and skill in the game. Over the years, Judah has proven to be a strong competitor, making a lasting mark in the world of poker.