Japanese Model Signs with PokerStars

Japanese Model Signs with PokerStars

Thursday, 19 March 2015

PokerStars has added a touch of style to its roster of sponsored pros thanks to the recent signing of Japanese model, Yuiko Matsukawa.

Famous for her appearances in a string of fashion magazines as well as the Masato Maeda-directed movie, Terrance House Closing Door, Matsukawa will now use her profile to promote poker as a game of skill across Asia.

The model's first appearance was in the Macau Cup earlier this year and as part of her contract she will participate in more tournaments across Asia, including the APPT, throughout 2015. Although a novice by her own admission, the 24-year-old is hoping to improve her game with the help of PokerStars pro, Kosei Ichinoise, and WSOP bracelet winner, Naoya Kihra.

"I was honoured to participate in a major poker event as a PokerStars brand ambassador. In the beginning I was a bit nervous, but eventually I found myself enjoying the game in a relaxed mood. I really appreciate my fans that cheered me on during the competition and I plan to brush up my skills for the next tournament," said the Japanese model.

Over the past twelve months a number of established pros, such as Marcel Luske and Humberto Brenes, have been released from their contracts with PokerStars. This clearing away of long serving pros has made way for a string of mainstream celebrities to take up brand ambassadors roles.

Rafa Nadal and Ronaldo have already embedded themselves into the PokerStars set-up and the addition of Matsukawa will increase the site's appeal to a broader audience. With PokerStars gradually turning its attention to games other than poker, this desire to appeal to new audiences should help bolster the site's overall traffic flow.



Tags: Yuiko Matsukawa, PokerStars