If you’re looking to catch a glimpse of Phil Hellmuth, heading to a bustling Las Vegas casino hallway during a major tournament series is an ideal strategy. It’s precisely in this vibrant setting that Nikki Limo managed to engage her former PokerStars Big Game rival during a brief intermission of filming for the latest installment of the show, coinciding with the ongoing excitement of the PokerStars North American Poker Tour (NAPT) Las Vegas festival.
As a premier figure in the world of poker, Hellmuth is no stranger to a plethora of interviews – for instance, check out the insightful conversation that PokerOrg had with him earlier this year. Kudos to Limo for daring to pose a question that we can hardly recall seeing the famously brash ‘poker brat’ confronted with before. The query, while straightforward, carries deep significance: why do you play poker?
Watch the complete unfiltered interview in the video above, where Hellmuth shares candid insights, including the reasons he won’t be appearing at any Triton events in the foreseeable future. Alternatively, continue reading for some intriguing highlights…
Nikki Limo: What do you do it for?
Phil Hellmuth: I am striving to establish myself as the greatest poker player of all time, and achieving that requires consistent participation in tournaments. A lot of naysayers love to criticize me, saying, ‘Oh, he’s not playing Tritons, he’s not competing here or there.’ That’s perfectly fine; let them express their views, but it adds a bit of humor to my situation.
NL: Do you have to become the greatest player?
PH: I’ve already secured 17 [WSOP bracelets]; my goal is to continue winning more and stacking up accomplishments. Ultimately, some people will say, ‘He didn’t partake in the Tritons,’ just like they used to claim, ‘Oh, he’s losing money in the high rollers,’ even though I’m actually ahead by $1.8 million in that arena. Regardless of the criticisms, I have my own life to lead; I’m married, and I genuinely enjoy spending time with my wife.
I have ambitions of becoming a billionaire. The reality is that many don’t grasp how substantial a favorite I would be in the Tritons… I’m not suggesting I’d be the absolute best, but I am confident I would perform exceptionally well.
NL: Ok, once you’re a billionaire, would you play the Tritons?
PH: The deterrent is the extensive travel. It represents significant time away from my wife and friends. I cherish my close-knit circle of friends in Palo Alto.
How do you think Hellmuth would fare in the Triton Super High Roller Series? Would they have to consider adding a Palo Alto stop on the tour to entice Hellmuth’s involvement? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
**Interview: Nikki Limo Conversations with Phil Hellmuth at NAPT Las Vegas Festival**
**Nikki Limo:** Phil, it’s great to catch up with you here at the NAPT. You’ve made quite a name for yourself in the world of poker. I have to ask—why do you play poker?
**Phil Hellmuth:** Well, Nikki, poker has been my passion for decades. Beyond the thrill of competition, it’s about the strategy and the psychology. Each game is like a new puzzle to solve, and the intensity of high-stakes tournaments keeps me coming back.
**Nikki Limo:** It’s fascinating to hear that perspective. You’ve faced many opponents over the years. Do you find that each matchup brings something different to your game?
**Phil Hellmuth:** Absolutely! Every player has their own style, their own tells, and their own approach to the game. It’s what makes poker unpredictable and exciting. I love the challenge of adapting my strategy according to who I’m facing.
**Nikki Limo:** Speaking of challenges, I know you’ve been absent from Triton events recently. Can you share why that is?
**Phil Hellmuth:** Sure, well, right now, my focus is on other tournaments and my own projects. I think Triton is great, but for now, I’m concentrating on opportunities that align with my goals. It’s all about maintaining balance in my career.
**Nikki Limo:** That makes sense! We all know how hectic the poker scene can be. What keeps you motivated to continue playing at such a high level?
**Phil Hellmuth:** The love for the game is my biggest motivator, along with the desire to improve. I’m constantly looking for ways to elevate my skills and stay relevant in this ever-changing landscape. Plus, the thrill of victory is hard to resist!
**Nikki Limo:** Well, it’s been an honor to chat with you, Phil. Good luck in the upcoming tournaments!
**Phil Hellmuth:** Thank you, Nikki! Always a pleasure to talk poker with you.
