The 2023 World Series of Poker (WSOP) Main Event has made history, smashing all previous attendance records. This year’s tournament, organized by Caesars Entertainment, has seen an extraordinary number of participants, highlighting the escalating popularity and excitement of this iconic event. The new Horseshoe Las Vegas, the venue for the 2023 WSOP, played a significant role in attracting record attendance, showcasing the passion of the poker community and the venue’s capability to host such a monumental event. Stay tuned to discover the new record.
The previous record, set in 2006, saw 8,773 players register for the WSOP Main Event. That year, Jamie Gold emerged victorious, leaving Las Vegas a staggering $12,000,000 richer. Before the 2023 Main Event kicked off, there were widespread speculations that this year could surpass the record set 17 years ago. Yet, no one was likely ready for the bar to be raised quite this high!
Overview of the WSOP
The World Series of Poker (WSOP) stands as the pinnacle of poker tournaments, renowned for its grandeur and prestige. Since its inception in 1970, the WSOP has grown into the largest and richest gaming event globally, awarding over $4 billion in prize money. This iconic series has expanded its reach beyond Las Vegas, with international editions like WSOP Europe, WSOP Asia-Pacific, WSOP International Circuit Series, and the newly introduced WSOP Paradise. As part of Caesars Entertainment’s Caesars Digital operations, the WSOP offers a comprehensive slate of tournaments, catering to every major poker variation. The world series of poker continues to captivate players and fans alike, solidifying its status as the ultimate poker competition.
How Many Players Competed in the Main Event WSOP 2023 and Set an Attendance Record?
We had to wait until the end of late registration on Day 2D of the 2023 WSOP Main Event at Horseshoe Las Vegas for the final participant count to be confirmed. The fact that the record was shattered was known in advance. The question, however, was by how much.
As confirmed by the organisers, a staggering number of 10,043 poker players competed in the 2023 WSOP Main Event, surpassing the previous record by a whopping 1,270 buy-ins. The significance of Horseshoe Las Vegas as the venue played a pivotal role in attracting this record attendance.
Historical Context
The WSOP boasts a storied history, with its first event dating back to 1968. Over the decades, the series has evolved, introducing new formats and innovations. One notable change was the introduction of the November Nine in 2008, where the Main Event final table was delayed until November to build anticipation. However, in May 2017, the WSOP reverted to its traditional format, crowning the Main Event winner in July. Television coverage has played a crucial role in the WSOP’s popularity, with the Main Event final table being broadcast since 2003. These milestones have contributed to the WSOP’s enduring legacy and its place in poker history.
Previous Attendance Records
The WSOP Main Event has seen several attendance records over the years, reflecting the growing popularity of poker. In 2006, the Main Event set a record with 8,773 entrants, a milestone that stood for 17 years. This record was shattered in 2023 when 10,043 players registered for the Main Event, marking a new era in WSOP history. The 2024 WSOP Main Event continued this trend, setting a new attendance record with 10,112 entrants. These consecutive record-breaking years underscore the increasing enthusiasm and participation in the world series of poker.
Player Reaction
The record-breaking attendance at the 2023 WSOP Main Event has sparked excitement and enthusiasm across the poker community. Players have taken to social media to share their congratulations and admiration for the event, celebrating this historic achievement.
Response to Record Attendance
WSOP Senior Vice President and Executive Director Ty Stewart described the 2023 WSOP as an “all-time summer” for the organization. Stewart emphasized that achieving a record-breaking field in the same year as the 50th anniversary of the WSOP is particularly fitting. He highlighted the historic nature of this milestone, attributing it to the growth and popularity of poker. The entire poker community has rallied around the event, contributing to its massive success. The record-breaking attendance has also resulted in a colossal prize pool of $94,041,600, with the Main Event winner set to receive the largest payout in Main Event history, exceeding $10 million. This monumental achievement is a testament to the enduring appeal and excitement of the WSOP.
This Year’s World Series of Poker Payouts Will Be Record-Breaking Too
With a record-breaking number of participants comes record-breaking payouts for those in the tournament. Let’s break it down.
The top 1,507 poker players will make it in the money (ITM), with the minimum cash-out being $15,000. Reaching the final table assures a payout of at least $900,000. The first player to become a millionaire will be the one who finishes in 8th place. The runner-up will walk away with a hefty $6,500,000, while a staggering $12,100,000 is reserved for the champion of the 2023 WSOP Main Event. Isn’t that just mind blowing?
| Place | Prize |
|---|---|
| 1st | $12,100,000 |
| 2nd | $6,500,000 |
| 3rd | $4,000,000 |
| 4th | $3,000,000 |
| 5th | $2,400,000 |
| 6th | $1,850,000 |
| 7th | $1,425,000 |
| 8th | $1,250,000 |
| 9th | $900,000 |
Does the huge turnout at the 2023 WSOP Main Event mean we’re seeing a new poker boom around the world?