Ivan Govorov Wins APT Manila Classic 2025 After a Stunning Comeback

The APT Manila Classic 2025 delivered four days of intense poker action at the Crowne Plaza Galleria. With a record-setting 1,202 entries, the tournament had the largest Main Event field ever in the Philippines. The prize pool reached PHP 62.3 million (~USD 1.07 million), drawing top players from around the world. When the dust settled, Russia’s Ivan Govorov claimed the top prize of PHP 11,069,680 (~USD 190,201), securing a landmark victory.

A Stacked Final Table

The final nine players battled for a life-changing payout, each guaranteed at least PHP 94,000 (~USD 1,615). Govorov entered the final table as one of the shorter stacks but played his way back into contention. Despite early setbacks, he stayed in the fight and delivered one of the most impressive comebacks seen on the APT tour.

The competition was fierce. Austria’s Samuel Mullur, Australia’s Dylan Foster, and Israel’s Or Nezer all held strong positions throughout the tournament. Mullur, a World Series bracelet winner, knocked out Iceland’s Adalsteinn Karlsson in eighth place and eliminated Dmitrii Belikov, the Day 1 chip leader, in sixth. With each elimination, the tension grew as the final showdown approached.

Key Hands and Critical Knockouts

Govorov’s comeback wasn’t without challenges. At one point, he lost a massive pot to Foster but responded by eliminating his fellow Russian, Alexander Ugay. Meanwhile, Mullur maintained control, sending Nezer to the rail in fourth place.

Govorov’s biggest moment came when he flopped a straight against Foster, knocking him out in third. That win shifted momentum, giving Govorov a comfortable lead heading into the final battle against Mullur.

The Heads-Up Battle

Govorov entered heads-up play with a solid chip lead, but Mullur refused to go down easily. He doubled up early, but after just four hands, the tournament reached its climax. Mullur moved all-in with ace-four, and Govorov made the call with ace-king. The board didn’t bring help for Mullur, sealing Govorov’s victory.

Govorov’s Reaction and What’s Next

After his win, Govorov expressed his excitement through a translator. “I expect to apply for a visa, travel to Taipei, and win there as well,” he joked, referencing the upcoming APT Championship. With over half a million dollars in live tournament winnings, he is now setting his sights on even bigger achievements.

Govorov also took a moment to thank his family. “I want to thank everyone who supported me,” he said, acknowledging his parents, brother, and girlfriend Angelina who joined him in Manila. He celebrated his victory by posing with the prestigious 24K Gold Lion trophy, marking a milestone moment in his career.

His performance at the APT Manila Classic 2025 was nothing short of impressive. With his momentum building, all eyes will be on him as he competes in future events.

Final Table Results APT Manila Classic 2025 Main Event