Richard Yong, born on December 25, 1957, in Malaysia, is a businessman turned high-stakes poker legend. His poker journey, while beginning relatively late, quickly propelled him into the elite circles of the game. Known for his love of high-stakes tournaments, Yong co-founded Triton Poker, a series dedicated to fast-structured, high-buy-in events that have attracted the best players worldwide. However, his passion for poker goes beyond just playing—it’s about creating a community and giving back through charity initiatives.
The Beginning: Business First, Poker Later
Before diving into poker, Yong established a successful career in the information technology and data-mining industries. His wealth and connections brought him to the vibrant gambling scene in Macau in the mid-2000s. It was there that his interest in poker ignited. Although initially unfamiliar with Texas Hold’em, Yong learned quickly by participating in high-stakes cash games, often playing alongside legends like Phil Ivey and Tom Dwan. His early experiences, though costly, only fueled his passion for the game.
Poker Success: From Cash Games to Tournament Glory
Yong made his mark on the global poker stage in 2012 when he finished 8th in the prestigious $1,000,000 buy-in Big One for One Drop event at the World Series of Poker, earning $1.2 million. This was followed by notable finishes in tournaments such as the €50,000 High Roller at the 2012 WSOP Europe, where he secured 3rd place. His career highlight came in 2015 when he won the Aussie Millions $100,000 Challenge, outlasting some of the best players in the world to take home $1.47 million.
Yong’s talents shine in both traditional and short-deck poker, a variant that has become particularly popular in Asia. His victories in short-deck tournaments, such as his win in the 2018 Triton HK$250,000 6-Max Event in Montenegro, have further solidified his reputation as a poker force to be reckoned with.
The Triton Poker Legacy
Beyond his personal success, Yong’s contribution to the poker world is profound. In 2016, he co-founded Triton Poker with the vision of creating high-stakes tournaments that cater to elite players while also donating profits to charitable causes. His unique approach to poker events—fast-paced, exclusive, and charity-driven—has resonated with players worldwide. The Triton series has become one of the most respected brands in poker, drawing top talent from across the globe.
Personal Life and Future Aspirations
Yong’s son, Wai Kin Yong, has followed in his footsteps, making a name for himself in the poker world. Despite his busy schedule, Yong remains deeply connected to both his business ventures and his philanthropic efforts, always looking for ways to give back through the Triton series. While he continues to play poker regularly, it is clear that his legacy is as much about building the game as it is about winning it.