This content was AI generated based on the original article published on https://www.pokernews.com/news/2026/09/phil-ivey-aces-cracked-200k-triton-invitational-jeju-52370.htm. All credits for the original reporting belong to them.
Phil Ivey suffered an early exit from the $200,000 Triton Invitational in Jeju, South Korea, becoming the first player eliminated after his pocket aces were cracked in a huge 445-big-blind pot during the very first level of play.
The five-time Triton champion had been enjoying a productive run at the Super High Roller Series Jeju II, reaching two final tables and claiming the top $400,000 bounty in the $40K NLH Mystery Bounty. His fortunes turned quickly, however, when he clashed with Lithuanian player Gytis Lazauninkas in the Invitational’s opening hour.
The hand saw Lazauninkas raise before Ivey three-bet from the button. Both players continued betting through a 4♣9♦2♥ flop and 3♦ turn, with Lazauninkas eventually shoving to put Ivey all-in for his tournament life.
After a lengthy tank, Ivey made the call, revealing A♣A♥ against Lazauninkas’ 9♥9♣. The 3♣ river completed a full house for Lazauninkas, sending Ivey to the rebuy desk and adding to the event’s $24 million prize pool.
Notably, this marks the second time Ivey has been eliminated first in an Invitational event, having also suffered an early exit at the Triton Super High Roller Series in Cyprus.
The Jeju Invitational has broken records of its own, with 60 pairs of Invitees and Pros competing, surpassing the previous high of 48 pairs set in Montenegro. Triton CEO Andy Wong called the turnout a “sensational achievement,” highlighting the event’s growing appeal across the poker community.
