Watch: Breaking barriers at the poker table
Earlier this year, Dory Brito claimed victory at the SiGMA Divas Poker tournament in Brazil, which helped place her on the map of competitive poker, a space still very male-dominated. Speaking at the SiGMA Poker Tour in Malta, Brito articulated her journey, her hopes for the future, and the message she wants to leave for other women entering the world of poker.
Inspiring women in poker
For Brito, her win in Brazil represented more than a personal triumph – it was symbolic. When asked what message she would offer young female aspiring players, she said with steadfast resilience that women must not ever give up, regardless of the setting. Brito acknowledged that the poker world remains male-dominated, but insisted that women have the potential to succeed and have proven their success.
“We are not behind the male players,” Brito stated. “Women have great potential to play poker, and there are many winners in women’s poker.”
Her statements echo throughout the landscape, where we are witnessing the participation of women rise, but often face setbacks based on stereotypes. For Brito, it is about continuing to work hard at it, putting in the work, and having the confidence to stand tall at the tables.
The Adrenaline of Malta
Following Brito’s impressive win in April, she was confronted in Malta with an opportunity to start taking her game to the international scene. The SiGMA Poker Tour had players from all parts of the world, and Brito’s story has inspired poker fans around the world.
“Yesterday, we made a deep run, we made a final table, and today we are back here,” she said, acknowledging what it meant to her about continuing the momentum she created in Brazil into Europe. Though she is 0 for 2 in not qualifying for the next tournament, Brito is feeling good about her situation. “It’s been amazing, and I’m very grateful to SiGMA for making my trip possible, along with the Monte Carlo Poker House in Brazil, where I won the tournament.”
Her gratitude reflects a sense of community within the sport – an acknowledgement that success at the table is often paired with the support of those who believe in the player behind the cards.
Looking ahead to Brazil
When we inquired about her hopes for the next SiGMA Poker Tour event in Brazil, Brito was clear: she’ll be coming back, not just as a player, but as a defender. “We’ll be there to defend that title. I am going to the tournament,” she said.
The ongoing intrigue of her being in the game is sure to provide not only a competitive edge to the tournament but also encourage a new generation of women to step up.
A step towards equity
Brito’s strong showing highlights a broader initiative for inclusivity in poker, as an increasing number of women are taking their seats at major tournaments, and it makes a difference. Productions such as SiGMA Divas underscore the necessity of creating opportunities for women players while giving them the respect they deserve on the world stage. Brito’s activism is a meaningful part of that movement.
As Brito’s own story reminds us, victory in Brazil and a solid showing in Malta demonstrate that poker expertise is not gendered. The future of poker–thanks to Brito–will be about tenacity, skill, and the will to disrupt the status quo.
To those cheering from the sidelines, her story is an invitation to the action- and an invitation to win.
For more about the SiGMA Poker Tour, visit our website.
