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John Matsuda is a Japanese professional poker player who has become a prominent force on the international circuit, widely recognized for his high level of consistency in major festivals across Asia and the United States.
Career Earnings & Biggest Results
With over $839,000 in total live earnings, John Matsuda currently ranks 26th on the Japan All Time Money List. According to The Hendon Mob, his career-best live cash of $159,687 was achieved in 2024, a year that marked his definitive ascent into the elite tiers of the game.
The year 2024 and 2025 have been exceptionally strong for Matsuda, yielding multiple major titles and high-stakes results. His recent triumphs and records include:
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Winner, USOP Grand Finale Hai Phong Championship Event (December 2024) for $98,701.
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Winner, APT Manila No-Limit Hold’em (November 2024) for $70,703.
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Runner-up, APT Manila No-Limit Hold’em (October 2024) for $120,343.
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5th Place, APT Manila Classic High Roller (February 2025) for $27,239.
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57th Place, WPT Seminole Hard Rock Poker Showdown Championship (April 2025) for $16,300.
Biography & Poker Background
Originally from Japan and currently residing there, John Matsuda has transitioned from a regional standout to a feared professional regular on the global stage. While he is a mainstay of prominent Asian festivals such as the Asian Poker Tour (APT) and the U Series of Poker (USOP), he has also become a frequent traveler to Las Vegas for the World Series of Poker (WSOP) . In 2025, he recorded multiple cashes at the WSOP, including deep runs in The Closer and the Lucky 7’s events. His rapid ascent is reflected in his Global Poker Index (GPI) ranking, where he currently sits as the 10th best player in Japan.
Play Style & Strategy
John Matsuda is known for a calculated and high-pressure tournament strategy, often excelling in “Championship” and “High Roller” formats where technical precision is paramount. During his victory at the 2024 USOP Grand Finale Championship, he demonstrated elite tactical discipline by outlasting a massive field to secure one of the most prestigious titles in the region. His approach combines a disciplined understanding of stack management, evidenced by his ability to dominate “Ultra Stack” and “Deepstack” formats, with the aggression required to thrive in fast-paced “Hyper Turbo” environments. His versatility across different circuit environments has made him one of the most consistent trophy hunters in the modern Asian poker era.
