However, in 2016, an unknown Vietnamese immigrant who came to the United States in 2001 at age 24, utilized an unconventional style in play and dress that captivated the poker world. The young Internet wizards dominated the felt, and poker seemed to be slipping past the 'older' generation. Until then, here are my top 15 WSOP main event victories:Įver since 2008, when 22-year-old Peter Eastgate broke Phil Hellmuth's record for the youngest WSOP main event champion, the victor had been aged in the 20s. From its humble beginnings at Binion's Horseshoe in Downtown Las Vegas to its present home at the Rio All-Suite Hotel and Casino near the Las Vegas Strip, the WSOP main event has captured the imagination of poker players all around the world, while its champions have garnered legendary status.Īs the 50th annual WSOP's main event begins, here are the top 15 victories with respect to significance and importance that have helped mold the event into the behemoth it is today.Īfter last year's second-largest registration (7,874 players the record is 8,773 in 2006), could we possibly see a new mark set in 2019? We will find out by the end of the week.

Wsop winners