WSOP Could Feature Over 10,000 Players For Third Year Running

The World Series of Poker (WSOP) is on the horizon, and anticipation is building for what could be a historic turnout at the main event beginning next month.

In 2022, the tournament made a triumphant return to pre-pandemic figures, attracting 8,663 participants. The trend continued into 2023, breaking records with 10,043 entrants. Last year’s edition set a new milestone with an astonishing 10,112 competitors in this premier poker event, demonstrating the steady resurgence of interest in live tournaments.

## Bet on Player Participation

Betting enthusiasts can now place wagers on the total number of players anticipated for this year’s main event, with Bet105 offering enticing odds of +300 on whether the count will surpass 10,000 participants once again.

The tournament series commenced on May 27, and the early indicators suggest that this year’s participation could surpass any previous figures. Notably, the inaugural WSOP 2025 online bracelets series reported a remarkable 29% increase in player engagement compared to last year’s opening weekend.

A standout event this year, the $1,000 Mystery Millions, generated significant buzz with 19,654 entries, culminating in a prize pool of $17,295,520—a 7% increase from the prior year’s 18,409 entries.

## Impact of Pennsylvania Joining MSIGA

A critical driver behind the rising player count is Pennsylvania’s recent inclusion in the Multi-State Internet Gaming Agreement (MSIGA). This development facilitates online competition among players from Pennsylvania, Nevada, New Jersey, Michigan, West Virginia, and Delaware.

The initial three online bracelet events attracted a total of 5,677 entries, reflecting a robust 29% increase compared to similar events from the previous year. This surge contributed to a combined prize pool of $2.8 million, up 23% from last year.

## Phil Hellmuth Pursues His 18th Bracelet

Among the most compelling narratives of this year’s WSOP is Phil Hellmuth, the record-holder with 17 WSOP bracelets. Initially announcing he would sit out this year due to the demanding schedule, Hellmuth confirmed his participation in the main event via social media, declaring, “I am 100% playing in the @WSOP Main Event!”

Hellmuth’s playful theme for this year’s event, dubbed “Highway To Hellmuth,” signals his intention to embrace the spirit of competition with a twist, even donning attire reminiscent of an 80s rock star. He is currently offered at +300 odds to secure his 18th bracelet.

Other prominent figures in the tournament, like Daniel Negreanu, have also showcased impressive performances. Negreanu finished as the runner-up in the $10,000 Omaha Hi-Lo 8 or Better Championship, earning $313,615. Currently, he’s at -120 on Bet105, indicating strong prospects for profitability in the main event.

Phil Ivey, another stalwart in the poker world, is eyeing his 12th bracelet with odds of +200. A multitude of betting markets are now open as the excitement builds for the main event, running from July 2 to July 16, culminating in the final table being held over the last two days at Horseshoe Las Vegas and Paris Las Vegas.

Ready to make your bets? The WSOP not only represents the pinnacle of competitive poker but also serves as a platform for engaging betting opportunities and riveting narratives that captivate poker enthusiasts worldwide.