Annie Duke: One of the Most Successful Women in Poker

Annie Duke has exemplified to the world that a woman of substance can also be successful in the happy-go-lucky game of poker. Despite having finished her studies in English and Psychology, Duke opted for a career in poker. As of today, she currently ranks among the best women players in poker.

Not only does Duke know how to play the game, she also excelled in a game that men usually dominate. This gives her a higher status as a player. Being the sister of one of the best male professional poker player is another major plus. Howard Lederer was the very first person who encouraged Duke to play the game. In the early stages of her life, Duke already showed a lot of potential as a young aspiring poker player.

As an amateur, Duke played small-time poker in different clubs and other minor gambling establishments. This contributed a lot with regards to her development as a complete poker player. After realizing that she was already ready for the pros, she immediately tried her luck in the World Series of Poker event. This debut effort landed her a total of $70,000. This early success inspired and challenged her to continue her career as a female poker player.

Duke can be considered as a real fighter in poker. She does not allow her femininity affect her style and level of play. In fact, she does not like playing in poker events that cater only to women. She believes that men and women should be given equal chances and opportunities in poker. She even knows that she can take on her male counterparts.

Because of her successful poker record, Duke has already earned a total of $1,421,639 from all her past victories. Her most successful year came in 2004 where she finished first twice in major poker events including the Limit Omaha Hi/Lo event at the 35th Annual World Series of Poker.

At the start of 2007, Duke has already earned a pretty much impressive record. In the 38th Annual World Series of Poker, she finished no lower than the 17th place in three different events. These include a 3rd place finish in the Pot Limit Omaha and 7 Card Stud Hi/Lo, a 13th place finish in the Omaha Hi/Lo World Championship, and a 17th place finish in the Pot Limit Omaha World Championship.

Duke has already become one of the toughest women in poker. She is a perfect example of a female player that combines elegance, grace and skill in playing the game. Among the most popular players that she admires in playing poker are Chris Ferguson, Phil Ivey, and her brother Howard Lederer.