Seat 2: Thomas De Rooij, 23, Groningen/Netherlands, PokerStars qualifier (11,180,000)
Poker is Thomas De Rooij's main source of income but he doesn't intend to become a full-time poker pro. The 23-year-old business economy student from Groningen is focusing on his studies for now and about to finish his bachelor's degree. De Rooij is enjoying the game and doesn't feel nervous at all: "Even if I bust now, it's already for a lot of money so I don't stress out. That might be my advantage on the final table," said the Dutchman.
A big score in this record-breaking EPT Main Event would allow him to travel to more live tournaments. De Rooij's only reported live cash to date was victory in the Grand Live Split Main Event for €34,800 last October. De Rooij only plays online twice a week but has a $70k+ result to his name. He loves animals and has five goldfish back home. He's also a passionate football fan, supporting Feyenoord Rotterdam. He plays football actively as well, both indoor and outdoor. De Rooij also likes to play table tennis. "I didn't have a chance to play against the pro here but we played some matches with my friends."