World Poker Tour

Men Nguyen “The Master“

Birthplace
Vietnam

Birthday
December 30

Total Winnings
$1,032,045

Men "The Master" Nguyen was born in Vietnam. He dropped out of school when he was 13 years old to help support his family. In his early 20s, Nguyen escaped Vietnam by boat in the middle of the night. When he arrived in the United States after receiving political asylum, he didn't speak a word of English. As he learned a new language, he also learned a new trade. He eventually got a job as a machinist. Nguyen played poker for the first time during a trip to Las Vegas in 1984. He was so intrigued by the poker room, he went back every weekend. He taught himself to play the game without the help of books or lessons. He lost so much money in those early years, his nickname was "Money Machine."

Men Nguyen won his first live tournament in 1987. He used that money to open two businesses, which he sold a few years later. Through those businesses, Nguyen met several Vietnamese people who he would eventually tutor in poker. One of those students gave him the nickname, "The Master." Many of the players Nguyen has taught have gone on to become successful pros. Poker has also allowed him to become a philanthropist. As Nguyen wins in the game of poker, so does his native country of Vietnam. He uses part of his winnings to help build schools and temples in his homeland.

Today, the living room of his Bell Gardens, California home is decorated with trophies and other signs of success in the world of poker. Nguyen has made four WPT final tables, including the WPT World Championship at the Bellagio in Season 4. He's won more than 75 major tournaments, six World Series of Poker bracelets, and more than $7 million. Card Player Magazine named him "Player of the Year" in 1997, 2001, 2003, and 2005. He may have come from humble beginnings, but Men "The Master" is now one of the best poker players in the world.