The World Series of Poker (WSOP) never fails to captivate. Day 30 of the 2024 WSOP was no exception, showcasing the thrilling highs and heart-wrenching lows that define professional poker. From seasoned veterans to rising stars, the felt was alive with excitement as players battled for glory and those coveted bracelets.
The Horseshoe Las Vegas and Paris Las Vegas were bustling with activity on Day 30, hosting ten events simultaneously. While most of these tournaments were winding down, one bracelet found its new owner. Italian poker star Dario Sammartino emerged victorious in Event #61: $2,500 Omaha/Stud Hi-Lo 8 or Better, finally clinching his first bracelet after over a decade of near misses. Sammartino’s journey is a testament to perseverance and skill, adding a new chapter to his storied career.
Spitale’s Millionaire Maker Quest
Event #54: $1,500 Millionaire Maker was the highlight of the day, drawing nearly 11,000 hopefuls. By the end of the night, only six remained, each vying for the $1,250,125 top prize. Franco Spitale of Argentina leads the pack with 83,600,000 chips, followed by Stephen Dauphinais with 68,700,000. Spitale hopes to turn his previous fourth-place finishes into a championship win. His competitors include Dauphinais, who’s riding the momentum of his first WSOP cash, and Charles Kersey, who will need a miracle with his mere four big blinds.
Brewer Dominates the $50K PPC
In the prestigious $50,000 Poker Players Championship, Chris Brewer leads the final five with a commanding chip stack of 10,425,000, while Daniel Negreanu is in second place with 7,675,000. Brewer is no stranger to WSOP success, having won two bracelets in 2023. His opponents, including poker legend Negreanu, Dylan Smith (4,000,000), Bryce Yockey (3,700,000), and David Benyamine (850,000), are formidable. Negreanu, seeking to end an 11-year bracelet drought, is hot on Brewer’s heels. The final table promises a clash of titans as they return to the felt at 2:00 p.m. on June 27.
Super Seniors: Eminoglu’s Time to Shine
Yucel Eminoglu, affectionately known as the “Mad Turk,” leads the final table of Event #59: $1,000 Super Seniors No-Limit Hold’em with 15,900,000 chips. His closest rival, Christopher Bucceri, holds 7,725,000. Eminoglu’s chip count gives him a significant edge as he pursues his first WSOP bracelet. The Super Seniors event has a special charm, showcasing that poker prowess doesn’t diminish with age. Eminoglu’s potential victory would be a heartwarming story for the poker community.
Rodriguez Eyes $3,000 No-Limit Hold’em Glory
Event #60: $3,000 No-Limit Hold’em reached its final day with 13 players left. Noel Rodriguez leads the charge with 15,425,000 chips, closely followed by Justin Belforti with 15,050,000. Vanessa Kade, a fan favorite, sits in fourth place with 5,625,000 and aims to become the first female champion of an open event at this year’s WSOP. The stage is set for a dramatic conclusion, with the winner taking home $676,900 and a WSOP bracelet.
Deepstack Championship and Other Highlights
The inaugural PokerNews Deepstack Championship saw Kenny Huynh bag the chip lead with 5,920,000 as the field narrowed to 60. Michael Dobbs is right behind him with 5,805,000. This event, designed to provide a more affordable WSOP experience, has been a hit, drawing thousands of players. Meanwhile, Michel Leibgorin tops the chip counts in Event #63: $1,500 No-Limit 2-7 Lowball with 3,995,000, followed by Charles Tucker with 2,325,000, looking to secure his first WSOP bracelet.
In the $600 No-Limit Hold’em Deepstack, Koray Aldemir remains in contention with 1,245,000 chips, hoping to add another bracelet to his 2021 WSOP Main Event title. Samuel Summers leads with 1,750,000, with Jamie Robbins close on his heels with 1,700,000. The $5,000 Seniors High Roller saw Angela Jordison take an early lead, positioning herself well among a field of seasoned players.
Pot-Limit Omaha Championship: A Battle of Titans
Event #66: $10,000 Pot-Limit Omaha Championship kicked off with James Chen leading the pack after Day 1 with 675,000 chips, followed by Jim Collopy with 636,500. This high-stakes event attracted top pros like Josh Arieh and reigning champion Lou Garza. With 726 entrants and late registration still open, the competition is fierce, and the action is just heating up.
What to Expect on Day 31
Day 31 promises to be even more thrilling, with six events set to crown their champions. The Millionaire Maker, $50K PPC, Super Seniors, $3,000 No-Limit Hold’em, $1,500 No-Limit 2-7 Lowball, and $600 No-Limit Hold’em Deepstack will all conclude. Additionally, players will continue their quest in the PokerNews Deepstack Championship, the Seniors High Roller, and the Pot-Limit Omaha Championship. New events, including the $500 Salute to Warriors No-Limit Hold’em, $2,500 No-Limit Hold’em, and $1,500 Seven Card Stud Hi-Lo 8 or Better, will also kick off, promising a packed day of poker action.