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Rafael Jacinto is a professional poker player who has been gaining prominence in the poker community in Portugal. With a career that began in 2010, Rafael found in Polarize Poker the opportunity to take his game to the next level.
In this article, we'll explore his journey, the challenges he's faced and the milestones he's reached since joining our Team Cash.
Start of Poker Career
Rafael Jacinto began his journey in the poker world in 2010, initially playing low stakes tournaments. However, he soon realized that he liked the cash game format better. “I've basically played NL10 all my life”, says Rafael. For a few years, he remained faithful to this level, until a forced break from poker in Portugal led him to temporarily step away from the game.
Back to Poker and Joining our Team Cash
Rafael's return to poker came in 2020, at the NL10 tables. He tried to move up to NL25, but without much success. It was in February 2023 that Rafael made the decision to join Polarize Poker, inspired by the victory of Michel Dattani at PCA of the same year. “I joined Polarize in February 2023, I'd been meaning to sign up for some time”, Rafael highlights the positive influence the team had on his decision.
Evolution at Polarize Poker
Since joining Polarize Poker, Rafael has started playing NL10. With the help of the team and coaches, he was able to scale the limits with ease, reaching NL100 by the end of 2023.
Now Rafael is take your shot at NL200, something he considered unthinkable a year and a half ago. “At this new limit I should find a lot more competent regs, since most of them are already professionals”, Rafael explains.
Main milestones and objectives
One of the most memorable moments in Rafael's career since joining Polarize Poker was winning the top advancement prize in 2023. “It was a great boost of confidence and a validation of the work I've been doing”, he recalls. For this year, his main goal is to establish himself at the new NL200 limit. Rafa believes that becoming a professional poker player will allow him to make his own schedule and spend more quality time with his family.
Graph 1 - Evolution of Cumulative Profit based on player sessions
Rafael Jacinto expresses his gratitude to everyone who has supported him on this journey. He would especially like to thank his coach André Cordeiro, the Head Coaches Arise, Hugo and Segrob, his fellow students and his girlfriend for their unconditional support.
“I recommend anyone who wants to evolve as a player and push their limits to sign up with Polarize. We have all the best conditions in which to work”, Rafael highlights the group classes, the fantastic coaches and services such as nutrition and mental coaching.
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