Minh Phu Dao

Minh Phu Dao is a Vietnamese entrepreneur turned poker professional, based in Hanoi. Before his poker career, he served as the CEO of NextTech Group, a technology company. His strategic mindset and risk tolerance, honed in business, would later serve him well at the poker table. Dao made his live tournament debut in December 2019 with a small cash in an APT event, but his rise to prominence came quickly.

Dao's defining moment came in March 2023 at the Triton Super High Roller Series in Vietnam. Playing in his first-ever major high roller tournament, he entered the $50,000 NLH 8-Handed event. Against a field of elite international pros, Dao emerged victorious, winning $1,670,000. The final table included legends like Patrik Antonius and Dan Smith. This victory instantly made him a national hero and established him as a force in high-stakes poker.

Following his Triton triumph, Dao continued to perform at a high level. In March 2023 he placed third in a Triton Vietnam $25,000 Turbo event for $301,000. In 2024 he won the USOP Hai Phong High Roller 6-Max for $53,800, and finished runner-up in the USOP Da Nang Superstar Challenge for $86,760. He also cashed in APT and VPT events, consistently reaching final tables. As of 2025, his live earnings exceed $3.7 million, ranking him first on Vietnam's all-time money list according to The Hendon Mob.

Dao is known for an aggressive, creative style that puts pressure on opponents. He leverages his position effectively and is not afraid to make big bluffs in key spots. He also possesses strong reading abilities, adapting his strategy based on opponents' tendencies. His calm demeanor under pressure, especially at high-stakes final tables, has drawn comparisons to other top pros.

Minh Phu Dao has become an icon for Vietnamese poker, inspiring a new generation of players. His rapid rise from amateur to high-stakes champion demonstrates the potential for Asian players on the global stage. With a thriving career and multiple titles, he continues to be a prominent figure in the international poker community.