- Birthdate:Vanessa Rousso’s birthdate
- Nationality:United States
- Tournament Earnings:$3,554,327
- WSOP Bracelets:–
- EPT Titles:–
- WPT Titles:–
- GPI Rank:–
- Online Earnings:–
- Pokerstake/P5s Rank:–
Nice to meet you, Vanessa Rousso
Vanessa Rousso, also known as “Lady Maverick,” is a name that resonates deeply in the poker world. Born on February 5, 1983, this multi-talented American-French professional poker player has had a fascinating journey. Although she hails from White Plains, New York, she moved to Paris soon after birth and lived there until she was ten. Returning to the United States, she later attended Duke University, where she majored in economics and went to law school at the University of Miami. Her early life is a patchwork of diverse experiences that shaped her into the poker pro she is today.
Vanessa Rousso’s personal life
Vanessa Rousso’s personal life is as intriguing as her poker career. She got engaged to fellow poker player Chad Brown in 2009. However, the marriage didn’t last, and they parted ways in 2012. As of now, she’s happily married to musician Melissa Ouellet since 2015. They reside in Las Vegas, a city emblematic of poker dreams.
Vanessa’s life isn’t just about poker tables and high stakes. She’s also a dedicated musician and DJ, often using her spare time to create music. Her love for electro-pop and house music adds zest to her vibrant life. Besides that, she’s passionate about health and wellness, often opting for a nutritious lifestyle to keep her energy levels high for those long poker tournaments.
Apart from poker, Vanessa is academically inclined. She has a law degree from the University of Miami, which undoubtedly helps her in contract negotiations and sponsorship deals. Poker is a game of math and psychology, and Vanessa’s educational background in economics and law forms a solid foundation for her analytical approach at the tables.
Despite the busy schedule, Vanessa finds time for friends and family. She’s often spotted with her poker pals like Liv Boeree and Daniel Negreanu. These friendships go beyond just the felt; they share experiences, strategies, and occasionally, friendly banter.
Vanessa Rousso’s beginning in Poker
Vanessa Rousso’s poker journey began during her college days at Duke University. While still a student, she started participating in online poker games and quickly made a name for herself. Her first big break came in 2006 when she finished seventh in the World Poker Tour Championship, pocketing a cool $263,625.
Not long after, she snagged her first sponsorship deal with PokerStars, one of the most prominent poker platforms in the world. This marked a significant turning point in her career. PokerStars provided her with an excellent platform to showcase her skills and grow her fan base.
Her aggressive but calculated style caught the attention of many, and she soon became a regular face in high-profile tournaments. Vanessa’s early career was marked by consistent performances, including a notable second-place finish in the 2007 European Poker Tour Grand Final. That result earned her around $700,000 and solidified her position as one of the rising stars.

Vanessa Rousso’s strategies in Poker and playing style
Vanessa Rousso’s playing style is a fascinating blend of aggression and intelligence. Unlike the “all-in” maniacs, she balances her play between GTO strategies and exploitative tactics. Her ability to read opponents and adjust accordingly sets her apart.
At the table, you’ll usually find her quiet and focused, keenly observing every move. She’s not the type to engage in excessive table talk. Vanessa’s signature strategies involve quick adaptations to different poker formats, whether it’s tournaments or cash games. Her versatility is evident, playing both online and live games with equal prowess.
A fan of both high-stakes tournaments and occasional cash games, Vanessa has proven her mettle across various platforms. Whether online or live, her analytical skills and decision-making processes remain sharp. Sunglasses and hoodies are often part of her arsenal, aiding in masking those invaluable tells.
Vanessa Rousso plays with an exploitative approach slightly deviating from GTO to capitalize on opponents’ weaknesses. This flexibility in strategy has earned her millions and a well-deserved place among poker’s elite.
Vanessa Rousso greatest achievements in Poker
Vanessa Rousso in WSOP

Vanessa Rousso might not have clinched a WSOP bracelet yet, but this shark has swum deep in several events, cashing in 18 times. Here are some highlights:
| Event | Date | Prize | How was it? |
|---|---|---|---|
| $25,000 No-Limit Hold’em 6-Handed Championship | 2007-06 | $285,438 | Vanessa proved her mettle in a field packed with elites, wrapping up in the 5th position, showcasing her skills on poker’s grandest stage. |
| $2,000 No-Limit Hold’em | 2006-06 | $263,625 | Another stellar performance landed her the 8th spot, as Vanessa displayed undeniable prowess against a tough cadre of opponents. |
| $5,000 No-Limit Hold’em Shootout | 2011-06 | $103,145 | Rousso’s relentless focus earned her a spot in the top 10, reaffirming her place as one of the most talented players in the event. |
Vanessa Rousso’s other major poker achievements
| Event | Date | Prize | How was it? |
|---|---|---|---|
| European Poker Tour, Monte Carlo Grand Final | 2009-04 | $700,160 | Vanessa secured the 2nd place in the EPT High Roller Event in Monte Carlo, showcasing her strategic brilliance among heavyweights. |
| World Poker Tour, Borgata Open | 2006-09 | $285,450 | She demonstrated her A-game by finishing 7th in the WPT Borgata Poker Open, navigating through a diverse and challenging field. |
| Partouche Poker Tour Main Event | 2010-09 | $358,964 | Vanessa finished 3rd in the Partouche Poker Tour Main Event, adding another impressive accolade to her career. |
| PCA National Heads-Up Championship | 2009-01 | $250,000 | One-on-one, Vanessa was nearly unbeatable, capturing 2nd place among a stellar field in the PCA National Heads-Up Championship. |
| WCOOP $25,000 Heads-Up High Roller | 2007-06 | $285,438 | Vanessa’s online prowess shone through in the World Championship of Online Poker’s High Roller event, cementing her status as a complete player. |
Vanessa Rousso’s challenges and controversies
When it comes to controversies, Vanessa Rousso is more of a peaceful meditator than a table-flipping competitor.
A verbal spat with Tony G
In a heated game at the 2009 World Series of Poker Europe, Tony G’s brash behavior ignited a war of words with Rousso. Tony’s aggressive table talk and mocking comments about her play style were on full display. Vanessa, never one to shy from defending her gameplay, countered his jibes with clever retorts. The situation escalated until the floor staff intervened and calmed things down.
Alleged Prop Bet with Daniel Negreanu
In 2010, rumors swirled about a significant prop bet involving Vanessa Rousso and Daniel Negreanu during an EPT event. Although the bet’s details were never fully disclosed, whispers of crazy terms and high stakes floated around the poker community, capturing everyone’s imagination. The actual result or outcome remains a mystery, but it certainly kept the poker gossip mill running for quite a while.
Feud with Phil Hellmuth
During a televised poker event in 2012, Vanessa Rousso and Phil Hellmuth engaged in a notable clash over Phil’s excessive tanking. Vanessa, frustrated by the delays, openly criticized Hellmuth, calling his actions unnecessary and disrespectful to other players. Phil, always quick with a defense, argued back, leading to a confrontation that was very visibly tense and dramatic. Other players at the table had to intervene to keep the game moving smoothly.
Online Poker Scandal
In 2013, Vanessa was linked to a controversial online poker account-sharing incident. The debate centered around whether she had participated in account sharing with another pro to gain an edge in an online series. Though never proven, the discussion around it stirred considerable controversy among fans and fellow players. It highlighted the ongoing concerns about integrity and fairness within the online poker world.
Vanessa Rousso – Poker Videos
Vanessa Rousso Dominates with Aces
Watch Vanessa showcase her incredible skills and stellar poker face as she takes over the table with some seriously impressive moves. With more than $3.5 million in live earnings, she’s truly the queen of the poker realm!
Vanessa Silences the Infamous Tony G
Tony G might be known for his grandstanding, but Vanessa shows him how it’s done. Witness her go from zero to hero, leaving Tony speechless. Spoiler: It’s a masterclass in confidence and strategy.
High Stakes at Bellagio’s 5 Diamond Final Table
Get ready for a thrilling showdown with Vanessa at one of poker’s grandest stages. With all eyes on a staggering $4,248,600 prize, the stakes couldn’t be higher. Absolutely unmissable!
WPT Season 12: The Decisive All-In Moment
Watch as Vanessa goes head-to-head with Lily Kiletto in an exhilarating all-in. The tension is palpable, the skills are razor-sharp, and the outcome is beyond gripping. Poker doesn’t get more intense than this!
Top 100 Greatest Poker Moments: Vanessa vs. The Magician
Antonio Esfandiari isn’t called “The Magician” for nothing, but Vanessa is up for the challenge. Watch this remarkable power play on the river that lands at #34 in the Top 100 Greatest Poker Moments.
Vanessa Rousso Poker Books
This player didn’t write any books.
Vanessa Rousso’s Notable TV Shows Appearances
High Stakes Poker
Vanessa Rousso graced the felt on “High Stakes Poker,” one of the most iconic poker TV shows ever. This show aired primarily on the Game Show Network (GSN) and featured real cash games with blinds as high as $300/$600. Vanessa played against fellow heavyweights like Phil Ivey, Daniel Negreanu, and Doyle Brunson.
Her appearances brought in a refreshing vibe, making the table less of a battleground and more a blend of strategy and charm. On the felt, Vanessa’s aggressive style, combining well-timed bluffs and solid reads, showcased why she’s a force to reckon with. Though the precise winnings from her stints here are off-radar, her gameplay left a lasting impression, enhancing her reputation in the poker world.

Poker After Dark
Poker After Dark, with its late-night allure, was graced by Vanessa’s presence multiple times. Primarily airing on NBC, this show presented high-stakes, single-table tournaments featuring six pros, and a winner-takes-all prize structure. Vanessa shared the spotlight with poker luminaries like Antonio Esfandiari, Phil Hellmuth, and Jennifer Harman.
In these matches, Vanessa displayed her strategic prowess and competitive spirit. Her calculated risks and fearless bluffs made for captivating television, even if the cash wasn’t always on her side. Whether she cleaned out or cashed out, her performance was pure gold and a treat for the poker enthusiast’s eye.

Big Game
Vanessa also appeared on “PokerStars Big Game,” a thrilling poker TV show where amateur players (Loose Cannons) were given a shot at big winnings. This series aired on Fox Network and featured a mix of professional and amateur players, making for an unpredictable poker dynamic. Other notable pros like Joe Cada and Tony G joined in on the fun.
Vanessa’s interactions with the Loose Cannons were as graceful as her play. Her tactical maneuvers, precise reads, and sometimes bold bluffs, kept both pros and amateurs on their toes. The game wasn’t just about the money but the strategic ballet played out, episode after episode. Fans watching got to see Vanessa’s resilient and adaptive gameplay, further solidifying her as a top-tier player.

WSOP Coverage on ESPN
Vanessa has been a regular at the WSOP tables, making numerous appearances on ESPN’s extensive coverage of the World Series of Poker. Competing among thousands, she faced off against poker giants like Chris Moneymaker, Phil Laak, and Vanessa Selbst.
While she hasn’t snagged a bracelet, Vanessa’s deep runs in various WSOP events have been televised, giving fans a glimpse of her intense focus and analytical gameplay. Her multiple cashes over the years prove that she’s not just showing up—she’s showing out. Her presence annually at the WSOP underlines a commitment to achieving poker glory and more memorable television moments.

Million Dollar Challenge
Featuring on “PokerStars Million Dollar Challenge,” Vanessa joined an elite team of pros, including Barry Greenstein and Daniel Negreanu. Contestants on this FOX-aired show could win up to $1 million by beating several pros in heads-up poker matches.
Vanessa’s role was to mentor and guide participants before they faced off against the pros. Her insightful strategies and tips often determined whether contestants advanced. Displaying not just her poker expertise but also her mentoring skills, Vanessa enriched the show, providing invaluable insights to future poker stars and entertaining fans along the way.

Shark Cage
Vanessa’s competitive edge was showcased again on “PokerStars Shark Cage.” This show, featuring aggressive bluffs and strategic calls, made you clench your seat. Protagonists like Maria Ho, Mike Tindall, and Andrew “LuckyChewy” Lichtenberger were familiar faces at the table.
The concept had a no-nonsense twist: get bluffed out, or called while bluffing, and you land in the ‘Shark Cage’ for a round, penalizing your stack. Vanessa’s game intelligence and fearless bluffs made her a tough opponent, often sending competitors to the cage. Her skillful play left fans eagerly anticipating each episode.

In all these appearances, Vanessa brought a mix of talent, charisma, and strategic prowess to the tables, making each show a littler brighter. வரம் முடிவு இல்லாமல், அவள் எங்கள் சர்வ தேவை மேலே என்பதை காட்டுகிறாள்.