The South African player took home $138,000 for his performance
The Hendon Mob Championship Cape Town Million wrapped up its third edition with South Africa’s Sean Bloom emerging as the champion after a field of 354 entries. The ZAR8,000 (US$450) event, hosted at GrandWest Casino, nearly doubled its original guarantee and generated a prize pool topping ZAR2.37 million (US$138,000). Only one non-South African reached the final table, making it a largely local showdown for the title.
Once French contender Kevin Boyer was eliminated, Bloom, Alvin Pillay, and Marko Nortje agreed to a three-way deal. Bloom held the chip lead at that moment and claimed the trophy as part of the agreement. The victory held extra meaning for him, as he previously finished fourth in the inaugural Cape Town Million in 2023. This year’s win adds another highlight to his growing list of live tournament accomplishments.
Bloom said the event’s strong turnout and boosted prize pool made the victory especially rewarding. He also secured a package for the 2026 Hendon Mob Championship, giving him a new international trip to plan, pending approval from his partner at home with their newborn. The Cape Town regular hinted he hopes to take more shots overseas in the coming year.
Much of the final day was driven by Marko Nortje, who dominated early action with an aggressive style and a large stack. However, Bloom turned the tide at the final table by picking off two major moves from Nortje, vaulting himself into a clear lead during three-handed play. Bloom said he targeted Nortje’s tendencies, choosing to inflate pots when holding strong but disguised hands.
With Nortje eventually falling short, the three-handed deal sealed Bloom’s victory. The fast-paced final table capped an action-packed tournament filled with swings, local talent, and a well-earned win for one of Cape Town’s most consistent performers.
