The second stop of the 2025 Brazilian Series of Poker (BSOP) season, held in São Paulo from March 13 to 19 at the WTC Sheraton, confirmed once again why the city is considered the beating heart of poker in South America. The event attracted thousands of players from around the world, with record participation across multiple events, highlighting not only Brazil’s passion for the game but also the tour’s growing international reach.
In total, the São Paulo stop hosted 35 official events and recorded over 10,000 total entries, with participation from players representing more than 15 countries. From massive field tournaments like the Start-Up and Main Event to high-stakes battles in the Super High Rollers, the stop showcased elite poker on all levels — and produced standout moments that set the tone for the rest of the season.
A Latin American Final Table: Main Event Crown Goes to Colombia
The Main Event (R$ 3,000 buy-in) drew a field of 1,278 entries, reaffirming its place as the most prestigious tournament on the schedule. In a highly competitive final table filled with international talent, it was Jherson Alvarez of Colombia who emerged victorious. His sharp, composed performance earned him R$ 497,750, the coveted BSOP trophy, and the symbolic 18k Gold Card Protector awarded to all Gold Tournament champions.
In second place, Nicolas Mohmadan of Argentina took home R$ 407,250, completing a dominant showing by South American players at the top of the leaderboard.
Serrano and Ventura Repeat High-Stakes Dominance
The high roller fields were once again headlined by familiar names — and familiar countries. Carlos Serrano, also from Colombia, continued his impressive 2025 run by winning his second Super High Roller title in a row. After his victory in Costa do Sauípe, Serrano claimed the BSOP São Paulo R$ 25,000 Super High Roller, topping 125 entries to earn R$ 690,000 and strengthen his position atop the season leaderboard.
In the Grand High Roller (R$ 15,000), Peruvian pro Diego Ventura captured the title after defeating a 255-entry field, banking R$ 680,000. The result marked another key title in Ventura’s long-standing BSOP career and emphasized the continued presence of international players in top-tier events.
Brazil Holds Its Ground in the Start-Up
While the top prizes went abroad, Brazil still had its share of moments. In the Start-Up event, which drew a massive 1,303 entries, local favorite Marcelo Mesqueu secured the win and R$ 220,000, bringing a Gold Tournament title back to the home crowd and energizing the local community.
A Festival That Reflects a Global Game
With thousands of players, dozens of champions, and prize pools totaling in the millions, BSOP São Paulo 2025 delivered a poker festival at global scale. The event not only reinforced the BSOP’s role as Latin America’s most important live tour, but also positioned it as a key destination for international players looking for competition, atmosphere, and opportunity.
As the BSOP tour continues through 2025, São Paulo’s chapter will be remembered as one of diversity, high-level performance, and an unmistakable sign that poker in Brazil is more global than ever.
