Derick Elomina discovered poker at 14, playing home games with his high school friends. What began as a pastime quickly grew into a passion that shaped his career. By 21, he entered the poker industry as a field reporter — just old enough to step foot inside the casino. Starting as a hand reporter, he steadily honed his craft, blending sharp observation with growing writing skills. Known for his dedication, he constantly roams the floor to capture the action, conduct interviews, and deliver live updates. With a strong commitment to the game and a passion for telling poker’s stories, Derick continues to build his path in the industry.

Updated: 2026.01.02

Pierre Courcoul is a professional poker player from France who has recently begun making a name for himself on the international tournament circuit. Currently residing in Princeton, New Jersey, he has successfully transitioned from local events to competing in major festivals across Europe and Asia, demonstrating a growing presence in the global poker community.

Career Earnings & Biggest Results

According to The Hendon Mob, Pierre Courcoul has amassed total live earnings of $8,969. While he is still early in his professional trajectory, he has already secured several deep runs in prestigious international series.

His career-best live score came in August 2025 at the Asia Pacific Poker Tour (APPT) Manila in the Philippines. Competing in the Last Chance Super Hyper Turbo (Event #96), Courcoul fought his way to a runner-up finish, banking PHP 160,000 (∼$2,802). This breakout performance in Manila was part of a productive 2025 season where he also recorded multiple cashes in France and the United States. His consistent results have placed him 10,723rd on the France All Time Money List as he continues to climb the global rankings.

Biography & Poker Background

Originally from France, Courcoul has adopted a nomadic approach to his career, splitting his time between Europe and his current residence in the United States. His poker background is rooted in both major tournament structures and recurring local events, providing him with a well-rounded foundation. In 2025 alone, his schedule included stops in the Philippines and France, and he is projected to continue this momentum with upcoming appearances at major festivals like the Kings of Tallinn and the Irish Poker Open in 2026.

Play Style & Strategy

Courcoul is recognized for his adaptability, particularly in high-variance, fast-paced tournament formats. His success in “Super Hyper Turbo” events suggests a sharp technical understanding of short-stack dynamics and the ability to make high-pressure decisions under extreme time constraints. While he maintains a presence in standard No Limit Hold’em fields, his strategy often involves leveraging his aggression in turbo structures to exploit the wider ranges of his opponents. This resilience in high-speed environments has allowed him to secure multiple final table appearances and top-10 finishes within the APPT and regional circuits.

Recent Attendances