The 2024 World Series of Poker (WSOP) Day 24 was a whirlwind of excitement, drama, and exceptional poker play. On June 20th, poker enthusiasts around the globe tuned in as four new champions emerged, each claiming their coveted WSOP bracelets and substantial prize money.
Chris Hunichen’s Triumphant Victory
Chris Hunichen clinched his first WSOP bracelet and a career-high payday of $2,838,389 by winning Event #47: $100,000 High Roller No-Limit Hold’em at the 2024 WSOP. Known for his online poker prowess, Hunichen overcame a field of 112 entries, creating a massive prize pool of $10,836,000. One pivotal moment saw him all-in with pocket fives against the A-J of Jeremy Ausmus, surviving with a river five to stay in the game. He ultimately outlasted Ausmus in a tense heads-up battle, where his 9-7 suited triumphed over Ausmus’ pocket jacks, giving Hunichen the win with trip nines.
Hunichen’s victory, following several close calls at the WSOP, marked his largest live score yet, bringing his total recorded tournament earnings to nearly $16 million. His win came with significant emotional weight, as he dedicated it to his late father, his biggest supporter. In addition to the prize money, Hunichen earned 1,200 Card Player Player of the Year points and 550 PokerGO Tour points, boosting his standings in both rankings. The final table featured top players like Viktor Blom, Chance Kornuth, and Isaac Haxton, all of whom made deep runs but couldn’t outlast Hunichen’s remarkable performance.
Pedro Neves and the Monster Stack Triumph
In Event #38: $1,500 Monster Stack No-Limit Hold’em, Pedro Neves emerged victorious after five grueling days of play. Seven players returned for the final day, but it was Neves who outlasted them all, claiming the top prize of $1,098,220. This win not only marked Neves’ first WSOP bracelet but also solidified his reputation as a formidable force in the poker world.
The Monster Stack event is notorious for its large field and intense competition. Neves’ ability to navigate through thousands of players and maintain his composure under pressure was nothing short of impressive. His triumph serves as a testament to the skill and endurance required to succeed in such a prestigious tournament.
Christopher Vitch’s Third Bracelet
Christopher Vitch added a third bracelet to his collection by winning Event #48: $1,000 Pot-Limit Omaha 8-Handed. Vitch was one of the top three start-of-the-day leaders, and his substantial chip stack provided a strong foundation for his victory. He walked away with $262,734, further cementing his status as a seasoned poker professional.
Vitch’s win was a masterclass in Pot-Limit Omaha strategy. His ability to read his opponents and make calculated decisions at critical moments was evident throughout the final table. For aspiring poker players, Vitch’s performance offers valuable lessons in patience, precision, and the importance of position.
Peter Park’s One-Day Super Turbo Bounty
Event #51: $1,500 Super Turbo Bounty No-Limit Hold’em was a one-day event that saw 2,110 players compete at a breakneck pace. Peter Park emerged as the last player standing, securing a gold bracelet and $240,724. The super turbo format, with its 20-minute blinds, required players to adapt quickly and make bold moves. Park’s ability to stay ahead of the competition and seize opportunities was key to his success.
Super Turbo events are a test of quick thinking and aggression. Park’s victory highlights the importance of taking calculated risks and capitalizing on the fast-paced nature of the game. His win adds an exciting chapter to the WSOP’s rich history of turbo events.
Event #45: H.O.R.S.E. Championship Heads to Day 5
The H.O.R.S.E. Championship was expected to conclude on Day 24, but Mike Leah and Maksim Pisarenko decided to extend the action to play in the Nine-Game Mix event. As a result, the tournament was paused and will resume on June 21 at 10:00 a.m. This unexpected delay adds an extra layer of anticipation as fans eagerly await the conclusion of this event.
Mark Seif Shines in the Seniors Championship
Mark Seif, a veteran poker player and two-time WSOP champion, made headlines by finishing Day 2 of Event #46: $1,000 Seniors No-Limit Hold’em Championship with the third-largest chip stack. Seif’s experience and skill were on full display as he navigated through a field of seasoned competitors. Canada’s Nathan Henry leads the pack, with Marc Wolpert close behind.
Seif’s impressive performance sets the stage for an exciting Day 3, where 208 players will continue their quest for a bracelet. Seif’s deep run in this event is a reminder of his enduring talent and competitive spirit.
Ben Hoy Leads the $3K NLHE Freezeout
In Event #49: $3,000 Freezeout No-Limit Hold’em, Ben Hoy ended the day as the chip leader. Guaranteed his largest-ever poker tournament score, Hoy aims to secure the $523,195 top prize. The final table is stacked with talent, including Joseph Carden and Erlend Melson, who are hot on Hoy’s heels.
Hoy’s performance in this event has been nothing short of spectacular. His aggressive play and timely bluffs have kept his opponents on their toes. As the tournament progresses, all eyes will be on Hoy to see if he can maintain his lead and capture the bracelet.
Razz Championship Field Narrows to 12
Event #50: $10,000 Razz Championship saw its field reduced to 12 players, with Brandon Shack-Harris leading the pack. The remaining players, boasting a combined 30 bracelets, include poker legends like Phil Ivey and Daniel Negreanu. Shack-Harris’ impressive chip stack puts him in a strong position, but the competition is fierce.
The Razz Championship is known for attracting some of the best mixed-game players in the world. Shack-Harris’ lead is a testament to his skill and understanding of the game. As the final day approaches, the battle for the bracelet promises to be intense and captivating.
Short-Handed Specialists in the $5K NLHE 6-Max
Event #52: $5,000 6-Handed No-Limit Hold’em attracted a host of short-handed specialists. Frenchman Julien Sitbon leads the field with 520,500 chips, followed closely by Bulgaria’s Krasimir Yankov. The tournament format, featuring deep stacks and six-handed tables, ensures a high level of competition and dynamic play.
Short-handed play requires a unique set of skills, including aggressive betting and the ability to read opponents in fast-paced scenarios. Sitbon’s chip lead is a testament to his prowess in this format. As the event progresses, players like Joseph Cheong and Damian Salas will be looking to challenge Sitbon for the top spot.
Richard Ashby Tops Nine-Game Mix Day 1
Richard Ashby, fresh off a win in the $1,500 Seven Card Stud event, leads after Day 1 of Event #53: $3,000 Nine-Game Mix. Ashby’s 465,000 chips put him ahead of a talented field that includes Yuri Dzivielevski and Brian Rast. The nine-game mix format tests players’ versatility and adaptability across multiple poker variants.
Ashby’s success in mixed-game formats highlights his comprehensive understanding of poker. His ability to switch seamlessly between different games gives him a significant edge. As the tournament continues, Ashby will aim to maintain his lead and add another bracelet to his collection.
Upcoming Events This Weekend
Looking ahead, Day 25 of the WSOP promises more thrilling action. Event #45: $10,000 H.O.R.S.E. Championship will finally conclude, while Event #49: $3,000 Freezeout No-Limit Hold’em and Event #50: $10,000 Razz Championship will also crown their champions. Additionally, Event #46: $1,000 Seniors No-Limit Hold’em Championship and Event #52: $5,000 6-Handed No-Limit Hold’em are expected to reach the money.
New events starting this weekend include:
- Event #54: $1,500 Millionaire Maker- Known for its massive fields and life-changing prizes, this event guarantees at least one player will become a millionaire.
- Event #55: $250,000 Super High Roller- The highest buy-in tournament on the schedule, drawing poker’s elite for a shot at millions in prize money.
- Event #56: $2,500 Limit Mixed Triple Draw (2-7, A-5, Badugi)- A favorite among mixed-game enthusiasts, offering a unique challenge with its blend of different draw variants.