Daniel Lee

Daniel Lee, a native of San Francisco, California, worked as a software engineer at a startup before deciding to pursue poker full-time in 2024. He had played poker casually in college and high school, but his passion for the game grew into a professional career after he left his tech job. Lee's analytical background and interest in markets helped him adapt quickly to the strategic demands of poker.

In November 2024, Lee won the Asian Poker Tour (APT) Manila Main Event at City of Dreams Manila, held in partnership with Soul Poker. The tournament set a record for the largest APT Main Event in the Philippines with 1,081 entries, generating a prize pool of PHP 100 million (~USD 1.7 million). Lee navigated a challenging final table, coming back from a short stack after starting as chip leader. He ultimately defeated Edgar Antezana heads-up after a deal that redistributed PHP 3 million (~USD 51,000) to second place. Lee earned PHP 15,060,000 (~USD 256,020) for the win, his largest career cash by a wide margin. In his post-match interview, Lee admitted, "I got pretty lucky," but his perseverance and skill were evident.

Beyond his APT title, Lee has compiled a strong record in live and online events. According to his WSOP.com profile, he has 38 cashes, 7 final tables, and total earnings of $800,016. Notable results include a victory in a WSOP Circuit event at Thunder Valley for $250,000 (September 11, 2025) and a runner-up finish in a WSOP Circuit High Roller for $45,197 (January 22, 2026). He has also cashed multiple times in World Poker Tour (WPT) events, including a 48th-place finish in the WPT Seminole Hard Rock Poker Showdown for $19,400 (2025) and a 137th-place finish in the WPT World Championship for $26,900 (2022). His WPT total earnings exceed $76,000.

Lee is known for a conservative, tight-aggressive (TAG) style, with strong fundamentals in hand reading and position. He manages his bankroll carefully and avoids unnecessary risks, but can shift to aggressive plays when the situation demands. His heads-up performance in the APT Main Event showcased his adaptability, as he overcame a chip deficit by rivering a flush against an opponent's trips. Lee emphasizes emotional control and discipline, traits that have served him well in high-pressure situations.

At 27 years old, Lee represents a new generation of poker players who combine analytical thinking with a passion for the game. His rapid rise from software engineer to major tournament champion is an inspiration to aspiring players. Lee's victory at the APT Manila Main Event not only marked his first major title but also highlighted the growing international appeal of poker. He continues to participate in tournaments worldwide, with a focus on continued improvement and building a lasting legacy in the poker community.