HEITMANN’S IS A SKILL GAME - International Federation of Match Poker (IFMP)

Jan Heitmann

German player Jan Heitmann was among those busting from the Main Event of the World Series of Poker on what is the penultimate day, before the final nine return in October.

As well as being an accomplished magician and pianist, Heitmann is a good-natured, talented and conscientious player, who while the remaining 27 players were thinking ahead to their own glory, he was considering the pressure of what it would mean to win a second title for Germany, following the performance of Pius Heinz in 2011.

“There are so many good poker players in Germany and poker is semi-exploding there, and I’m happy to represent all of those good poker players. But I would really like to take it to the next step,” said Heitmann.

“A second German champion would be huge in Germany. You could do all the talk shows and get the public to know that poker is a skill game. It might affect the legalisation and everything.

“Making the final table would be enough to do that,” said Heitmann, before adding with a grin “after that I can think about winning for myself, because I need the money and stuff.”

Alas, Heitmann was eliminated in 26th place, behind one of two other Germans, Nicco Maag, who departed in 27th. But despite leaving earlier than he hoped, Heitmann’s performances should be noted for what it was – a perfect demonstration of skill and talent, played in the best possible spirit.
Heitmann is a perfect ambassador for poker not just in Germany, but around the world.