The Global Poker Index is a ranking of live tournament poker players from around the world. GPI poker rankings are updated weekly with player performances based on factors involving their performance in qualifying tournaments. Since 2017 is over, the GPI Player of the Year has now been announced. Adrian Mateos was able to claim the title, just barely beating Bryn Kenney, who finished in second place.

According to PokerNews, for the second half of the year, Kenney held the lead for over a four-month time frame. Mateos then took over the number one spot in the middle of December.  Mateos was able to push past Kenney due to cashing out four times and making three final tables while participating in PokerStars Championship Prague.

For 2017, Mateos was able to cash out 37 times and earn just over $5.8 million. The pro now continues to sit atop the overall GPI World Rankings as the top-ranked tournament player in the world. Kenney finished the year with just over $8.5 million in earnings on the 2017 Money List. Following Mateos and Kenney on the list was Stephen Chidwick in 3rd, Koray Aldemir in 4th and Stefan Schillhabel in 5th.

To qualify for GPI Player of the Year points, players are to compete in a poker tournament that meets certain qualifications. The tournament must have at least 21 players competing, has a $1 minimum buy-in and finish in the money. After every tournament, the calculations are made, and players move up or are added to the GPI Player of the Year board based on finish.