Naoya Kihara Wins at WSOP: NIPPON SERIES Executive Director Victorious at World's Largest Poker Tournament in Las Vegas

The NIPPON SERIES general incorporated association is proud to announce that Naoya Kihara, the organization's Executive Director, has won Event #17, the "$10,000 No-Limit 2-7 Lowball Draw Championship," at the World Series of Poker (WSOP), the world's largest poker tournament currently underway in Las Vegas, USA.

Top players from around the globe participated in this tournament, and Kihara emerged victorious after a fierce competition, securing his second WSOP bracelet.

With this win, he also claimed a prize of $428,923, marking a historic achievement for a Japanese player on the world's highest stage.

The WSOP bracelet is considered one of the most prestigious titles for poker players worldwide, making this victory a historic milestone for the Japanese poker scene.

In addition to his role as a competitive player, Kihara serves as the Executive Director of NIPPON SERIES, working tirelessly to develop the domestic poker scene and improve the culture and competitive environment of poker in Japan.

NIPPON SERIES will continue its efforts to promote the further development of the Japanese poker world and foster players capable of competing on the global stage through the operation of various tournaments and events.

Upcoming Events: - GO by NIPPON SERIES NARA Dates: June 18 (Thu) - June 21 (Sun), 2026 Venue: Nara Convention Center, Tenpyo Hall

- NIPPON SERIES FUKUOKA Dates: August 11 (Tue/Holiday) - August 16 (Sun), 2026 Venue: Scala Espacio (Fukuoka Toyota Hall)

- GO by NIPPON SERIES HACHIOJI Dates: August 28 (Fri) - August 30 (Sun), 2026 Venue: Tokyo Tama Mirai Messe