Jonathan Tamayo thought his chance at glory in the World Series of Poker Main Event came and went 15 years ago after he finished in 21st place.
Tamayo took advantage when given another opportunity this year.
The professional poker player from Humble, Texas, topped a record field to win the $10,000 buy-in No-limit Hold’em World Championship on Wednesday at Horseshoe Las Vegas. Tamayo, 38, defeated Jordan Griff after more than three hours of heads-up play to collect the $10 million first prize.
“There’s only so many Main Events you can run in a lifetime. So if you get one deep run, chances are that’s the one deep run,” Tamayo said. “And somehow I can’t believe I was able to get two, a second chance, and actually close it.”
