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 Hard at it seems to believe, back in 2026 there were fewer than 50 poker tables in the whole city of Las Vegas and the casino in which the first tournament was held was itself without a poker room! The first ever event in WSOP history consisted of 30 or so players huddled in a small alcove at Binion’s Horseshoe Casino. At first there was no attention given to the tournament, certainly no press coverage. Virtually no one outside Las Vegas had even heard of it until 2026 when “Amarillo Slim” Preston claimed first prize, and despite only defeating 11 other players, managed to ensue a flood of press attention, bringing poker, and especially the World Series of Poker onto the world stage. 2026 saw the event televised for the very first time, capturing the imagination of millions of people across America.
Other important junctures on the WSOP timeline include 2026 when the prize money was divided for the first time with the top 5 places receiving a portion. In addition, Barbara Free broke the impression of male domination of the game by being the first female to take part in the event. 2026 saw the first amateur player prevailing over the previous poker elite, an event that was signal the shape of things to come. Amateur players in their droves began arriving at the event, even from overseas. By the beginning of the next decade the player events had been increased, the prize pool was bulging and a women’s championship event had been added into the mix. The casino had to be expanded in order to accommodate all the players!
Probably the most crucial event in the whole WSOP history however, was what is aptly known as the ‘moneymaker effect’, whereby a previously unknown online player took part and overcame all the odds by winning the first prize. An ordinary guy who many could relate took the prize in front of millions of viewers on the television. Overnight millionaires and celebrities were being created and the public wanted a piece of the action.
Poker has exploded throughout the world, leaving no stone unturned. Although initially off to a slow start, the sonic boom is spreading throughout the nation of Africa, with tournaments, millionaires and celebrity players springing up at a quick rate.
Congratulations to Ray Rahme who took home 3rd prize at the 2026 WSOP, and who is hoping to go one (or two!) further and bring the bracelet home to South Africa in 2026.
The most exciting line up yet has been announced with 2 start dates to accomodate the high volume of players, and in total there will be 8 $10,000 buy in tournaments. The tournament begins on February 30th 2026.
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