Early on in 2020, it looked like the traditional WSOP was not going to happen. Every May to July, players look forward to heading to Las Vegas and taking part in the many tournaments offered during the series. However, this year, we had the COVID-19 pandemic pop up out of nowhere and the WSOP was canceled. Fast forward a few months and organizers decided to revamp the Main Event and provide a way to name a 2020 champion. Broken up into international and US-based events, we now know which two players will face off against each other to see who will be named the winner.
Joseph Hebert of Louisiana recently won the US leg of the competition and will be meeting Damian Salas in the final heads-up round on January 3. Salas was able to win the international leg, which took place via GGPoker with the final table playing out at King’s Casino in Rozvadov.
Hebert’s Dominating Win
From the start of the final table to the finish, Hebert was in control. He had the chip lead going in and was ready to take on the challenge of eliminating players. Hebert would take out Harrison Dobin as well as Tony Yuan early on.
Eventually, it was Hebert and Ron Jenkins going head-to-head to see who would move on to the next round. Hebert had a two to one chip lead going in and it would surprising take only one hand for the win to be earned.
Hebert four-bet with A-Q and Jenkins called with Queens. An Ace on the flop helped Hebert and once the river fell, it was over for Jenkins. He would exit in second place but still earn just over $1 million for his efforts.
Final Table Results
Place | Player | Prize
First | Joseph Hebert $1,553,256
Second | Ron Jenkins $1,002,340
Third | Michael Cannon $529,258
Fourth | Ryan Hagerty $387,130
Fifth | Ye “Tony” Yuan $286,963
Sixth | Harrison Dobin $215,222
Seventh | Shawn Stroke $163,786
Eighth | Gershon Distenfeld $125,885
Ninth | Upeshka De Silva $98,813
Unfortunately for one player, the WSOP final table would not be an option. De Silva reportedly tested positive for COVID-19 and was unable to attend the event. The rules of the WSOP state that any player who tests positive would be considered ineligible to play. De Silva was positive, so he was out in 9th players and still earned the prize money.
Another interesting note is that the final two were supposed to play out at the Rio on December 30. However, travel complications for Salas have led to the event begin postponed for a few days. Salas should be able to reach the Rio by the 3rd and the event will carry out as originally planned at the Rio.
The WSOP Champion will be able to claim the title win as well as $1 million in additional prize money. And of course, the winner will receive a diamond and gold encrusted 2020 WSOP Main Event bracelet! Just a few more days to go before we see who the 2020 Champion is!
