In the world of poker, where strategy meets psychology and every move can be a game-changer, the players who rise to the top often bring with them a unique blend of life experiences. Today, we sit down with Christian Kempf, a 39-year-old poker enthusiast from the enchanting landscapes of Switzerland.
Beyond the poker table, Chris finds solace in the pages of books, the adrenaline of sports, and the tranquility of nature. These seemingly unrelated passions, however, weave together to form the fabric of his poker strategy. Join us in this exclusive interview with Christian Kempf – a player who brings more than just cards to the table
How did you first get introduced to the game of poker?
I first got into poker in 2006, right around the time when the buzz about ‘Chris Moneymaker’ was taking off. Back then, home games were all the rage among friends. Soon after, legal poker clubs started popping up across Switzerland. Unfortunately, this era of legal poker clubs was short-lived, as they were banned again due to a change in the law.
Can you share your journey from casual player to becoming a professional poker player?
I am still a casual player, but I can already play the game profitably over an extended period. I strive not to remain stagnant and consistently analyze and optimize my gameplay.
What is the biggest single poker tournament win you’ve ever had, and how did it feel to achieve that victory?
My biggest win was at the Malta Poker Festival (MPF) this year. The total winnings, including bounties, amounted to 22k. The feeling was incredible. I have been steadily working on my game over the last few years. To record a win like that with so many friends present was a very emotional moment for me.
Are there any specific poker players who have influenced your playing style or strategy?
There are many influences on my poker journey, to name a few: I have been following Marc Gork’s career since the very beginning. During the COVID-19 pandemic, I played online cash games and had some coaching sessions with him. A few years ago, after my 1-2 year break from poker, I became familiar with Felix ‘xflixx’ Schnieiders. For those who don’t know him, he is a German poker streamer and PokerStars Ambassador. He made it much easier for me to get back into the game, and I was able to benefit greatly from his insights. The content from Gareth James and his podcast ‘Poker on the Mind’ with Patricia Cardner also has a constant influence on my game.
How do you prepare for a poker tournament, both mentally and physically?
Before live tournaments, I try to get enough sleep, eat well, get as much daylight as possible, and engage in enough exercise. This is usually sufficient to keep me mentally and physically fit. If I feel inner restlessness, meditation or listening to music helps me. I also try to work out a strategy based on the type of tournament I’m playing and reconsider it.
Could you share one of your most memorable or significant wins in your poker career?
There are two, both from this year. One was winning the APAT at the MPF this spring, marking my first major victory with a trophy to take home. The second was the Mystery Bounty win at the MPF three weeks ago, and it stands out as my biggest win to date. Many friends from the community were present, cheering on the rail.
How do you handle the ups and downs, emotionally, that come with the game?
The ups and downs are simply part of the game. The better you recognize them, the better you can deal with them. I try not to dwell too much on things that I can’t influence and instead focus on what I can control—analyzing my preparation, my decisions, and my gameplay.
What strategies or skills do you believe are essential for success in poker?
In my opinion, mindset is one of the most crucial aspects of poker. It’s essential to be aware of all the information available on the market and assess your opponents based on this knowledge. Additionally, poker has evolved rapidly in recent years, so staying up-to-date in this area is crucial. Keeping abreast of developments allows you to extract the most profitable opportunities for yourself.
How do you manage your bankroll to ensure long-term success?
I tend to follow a conservative bankroll management (BRM). As a rule, I only participate in tournaments for which I have at least 100 buy-ins. Given my solid return on investment (ROI) in satellite tournaments, I can regularly take shots at higher buy-ins.
What are the key factors you consider when choosing which poker tournaments or events to participate in?
Apart from bankroll management (BRM), I believe the most important thing is to listen to my body. If I don’t feel fit or ready to play a tournament, I refrain from doing so. I also consider tournament structure crucial. With the exception of satellites, I only participate in live tournaments that have a solid structure.
Are there any poker books, courses, or resources that have had a significant impact on your game?
Poker is a fast-moving game, so it’s crucial to keep up with the times. I love reading books; unfortunately, many poker books become outdated. Currently, I work with GTO Wizard and follow a few selected Twitch streams and YouTube channels.
Do you have any rituals or habits you believe bring you luck at the poker table, such as wearing a specific item of clothing or carrying a lucky charm?
In fact, I didn’t have this experience before Malta. However, Malta has made me somewhat doubt this. On this trip, I had a Pokerhopper cap and a Bounty Hunter hoodie with me for the first time. Despite playing several tournaments, I managed to win the two tournaments where I wore the cap and hoodie.
What advice would you give to aspiring poker players looking to improve their skills?
I will probably take a break at the beginning of next year and focus more on playing poker. I also want to invest more time in studying and continue to develop. My dream is to one day be able to make a living from poker in some form or another.
As our conversation comes to a close, it’s evident that Christian Kempf brings a unique blend of experiences to the poker table. From his culinary roots to his dedication in the social sector, Chris’s journey into poker is a testament to the game’s ability to captivate individuals from diverse backgrounds.
His strategic approach, influenced by a background in social work, showcases the interconnectedness of skills cultivated in different aspects of life. Chris’s commitment to continuous improvement, evident in his diverse range of influences, reflects a mindset that goes beyond the cards and into the broader realm of personal development.
As he dreams of making a living from poker in the future, we look forward to following Christian Kempf journey, celebrating his victories, and learning from the insights he generously shared today. Whether at the poker table or in the diverse landscapes of Switzerland, Christian Kempf embodies the spirit of a player who understands that in poker, as in life, the journey is just as important as the destination.