Jinrong Zhang Wins Inaugural Canadian Poker Championship in Montreal

samantha-doyle
By Samantha Doyle
20 Oct 2025
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Samantha Doyle 20 Oct 2025
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  • Jinrong Zhang wins $165,000 at Canadian Poker Championship
  • 1,057 entries create a $1,055,000 prize pool, surpassing expectations
  • Event marks MSPT's inaugural international tournament
Canadian Poker Championship 2025
The first-ever Canadian Poker Championship at Playground Casino in Montreal was a massive success, smashing its $1 million guarantee as 1,057 players battled for the title and a $1,055,000 prize pool. 

When the cards settled, local player Jinrong Zhang stood tall, taking home $165,000 and the honour of becoming the first Canadian Poker Champion. 

“This is a really big score,” Zhang said after sealing the win with a straight on the final hand. “It was a tough final table with so many strong local players. I just tried my best and trusted the process.” 

A Record-Breaking Debut for MSPT Canada

The event marked the MSPT’s first-ever international stop, drawing players from across Canada and the U.S. over four starting days. 

With over a thousand entries, the turnout exceeded all expectations setting a new benchmark for major tournaments on Canadian soil. 

Final Table Highlights

The final table saw a mix of seasoned grinders and rising stars, with several dramatic showdowns keeping the rail on its feet. 

Zhang dominated late, outlasting Sebastien Proulx and Lyndon Webster, who both locked in career-best scores after the trio struck an ICM deal before the final stretch. 

Final Results – Canadian Poker Championship


  1. Place
    		Player
    		Winnings
    1Jinrong Zhang$165,000
    2Sebastien Proulx$118,610
    3Lyndon Webster $115,530
    4Kevin Javier$65,095
    5Scott Babbitt$49,600
    6Carter Swidler$38,230
    7Adam Cader$29,965
    8Rami Hammoud$22,730
    9Pierre-Alexandre Lessard$18,600
    10Alexandre Fournier$14,675

“Hold Onto Your Dreams”

After lifting the trophy surrounded by friends and supporters, Zhang shared a message that resonated beyond the felt: 

To all players, hold onto your dreams. Do what you can with your game and leave the rest to the poker gods.

FAQs: Canadian Poker Championship

Who won the 2025 Canadian Poker Championship?

Montreal local Jinrong Zhang won the inaugural title and $165,000.

Where was the event held?

The tournament took place at Playground Casino in Montreal, Quebec.

How many players entered the event?

A total of 1,057 entries created a prize pool of $1,055,000.

Is the Canadian Poker Championship part of MSPT?

Yes, it was the first international stop for the Mid-States Poker Tour (MSPT).

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