"Soraya Estrada Expresses Her Wish to Continue Gaming in Poker and Emphasizes Her Life's Meaning"
Rewritten Article:
As the PokerStars European Poker Tour Monte-Carlo fest kicks off, one conspicuous absence graces the women's event - Soraya Estrada, the former champ. But she's got a valid excuse - she's doing well in the EPT Monte-Carlo Open Cup instead. Having nabbed the EPT Women's Event Title at EPT Barcelona last year, Estrada holds a soft spot for women-exclusive tourneys.
Estrada shares, "I love the women's event. It's usually such a vibey atmosphere. Many newbies are there, so we aim to help with rules and dealer interactions. It's a welcoming space."
These events aren't merely stepping stones en route to larger, mixed arenas; they're sanctuaries where many women find solace and camaraderie. Estrada says, "We can easily handle eight men at one table. But some just cherish the women's event, where they feel at ease."
However, the poker gender divide remains prominent, particularly at substantial buy-ins. Estrada attributes it to more than just skills or passion.
"Socially and emotionally, women often view money differently. Distinguishing poker as an investment and dealing with emotional swings can be a hurdle," she admits.
Yet, she remains hopeful, applauding the strides women in poker are making. "There's a lot of work being done by women in poker, sponsoring players and aiming for a broader audience, encouraging more to join," she adds.
Refusing to lose hope, Estrada intends to keep the game alive. "Of course, I aspire for a prestigious title, but I'm content as long as I can continue attending tournaments," she reveals.
Reminiscing about her days in Dublin for the Irish Open, she shared a memory, "I remember losing a massive pot at the Mini Main Event, and someone asked why I seemed so cheerful. I told them, 'Cause I'm still here. I'm still playing.' That's all that matters."
Estrada hopes one day she'll step away from the game on her terms. "If I can keep playing, I'll keep winning. Whether it's Dublin, Monte-Carlo, or anywhere else - I'll be ready."
Based in the UK, Will joined PokerNews in 2019 as Managing Editor, after starting off as a freelance live reporter in 2015. He graduated with a B.A. in German from the University of Kent in 2017 and holds an NCTJ Diploma in Sports Journalism.
Enrichment Data Integration:- Social and emotional factors contribute to the gender gap in poker, as women tend to approach money differently, making it more difficult for them to view poker as an investment. Additionally, emotional fluctuations can pose a challenge[1].- Women-only events function as crucial spaces where female players find comfort, support, and camaraderie, especially helpful for beginners seeking a friendly environment[1].
[1] Source: Personal Communication with Soraya Estrada, April 2022, Monte-Carlo, Monaco.
- In the world of poker, women-only events like the EPT Women's Event provide a unique, welcoming environment that fosters camaraderie and ease for female players, serving as a crucial retreat from larger, mixed arenas.
- Socially and emotionally, women often struggle to perceive poker as an investment and manage emotional swings, contributing to the gender gap in high-stakes tournaments, as admitted by poker champion Soraya Estrada.
