Paul Magriel

Paul Magriel was an American professional poker player, backgammon player, and author, born on July 1, 1946, in Las Vegas, Nevada. He earned over $527,300 in live tournament winnings, with his best cash of $79,625 coming from a first-place finish at the Grand Prix of Poker in January 1985. Paul passed away on March 5, 2018.

He is also the author of ‘Backgammon‘ (1976) and ‘An Introduction of Backgammon‘ (1985).

Paul Magriel: Early Life

Magriel’s journey from junior chess champion to a well-known figure in backgammon and poker showcases his intelligence and competitive spirit. Born on July 1, 1946, he made significant contributions to the gaming community. While he found success in poker, his main impact was in backgammon. Tragically, he was found dead by his assistant on March 5, 2018.

Paul Magriel: Live Tournament Participation

Paul Magriel’s first recorded live cash occurred in January 1985 at the Grand Prix of Poker in Las Vegas. He finished in 1st place in a $1,000 No Limit Hold’em, winning his best live cash of $79,625.

On September 21st, 2002, Paul played in a €2,000 No Limit Holdem during the Autumn Tournament in Paris. He clinched another victory and won $47,404.

Shortly after, on September 30th, Paul entered in a €500 + 40 Pot Limit Omaha at the Austrian Classics in Vienna. He continued to dominate in tournaments and won $24,032.

At the World Poker Challenge in Reno in March 2003, he earned a cash prize of $29,452. Paul participated in a $5,000 + 100 No Limit Hold’em – WPT Championship Event and finished in 4th place.

Continuing his career, he competed in a PPT Final Day No Limit Hold’em at the WPT Bay 101 Shooting Star in San Jose in March 2005. Paul finished in 5th place and took home $30,000.

Later in October of that year, he participated in a $9,700 + 300 Limit Hold’em – Main Event during the United States Poker Championship in Atlantic City. Paul secured 18th place and earned $28,372.

Most recently, in July 2017, he competed in a $888 No Limit Hold’em – Crazy Eights Event #60 at the 48th World Series of Poker in Las Vegas. Paul placed 304th and cashed $3,611.