2025 WSOP Launches in Las Vegas with Record 100 Bracelet Events
The 56th annual World Series of Poker (WSOP) officially kicks off today, Tuesday, May 27, 2025, with a record-setting schedule of 100 live bracelet events hosted at the Horseshoe and Paris casinos on the Las Vegas Strip. Running through July 16, this global poker festival draws thousands of players—from elite professionals to enthusiastic amateurs—eager to compete for the iconic WSOP gold.
A Historic Lineup and Exciting Start
For the first time in WSOP history, the series will feature 100 bracelet events, showcasing its remarkable growth and diversity. Day one opens with the fan-favorite $1,000 Mystery Millions event, which includes a $1 million bounty not just for the winner, but also randomly awarded to a knockout player. This no-limit hold’em multi-flight tournament has gained popularity for its surprise million-dollar prizes and thrilling gameplay.
Early highlights of the series also include the $25,000 Heads-Up No-Limit Hold’em Championship, the $10,000 Mystery Bounty, and the $25,000 High Roller PLO/NLH Mix—tournaments that attract some of the biggest names in the poker world.
According to Poker News, this year’s $10,000 Main Event—the crown jewel of the WSOP—will begin on Wednesday, July 2, with four starting flights. Players can register up until Day 2D on July 7. The final table is scheduled for July 15–16, when a new world champion will be crowned.
First WSOP Under New Ownership
This year’s WSOP marks the first under new ownership by NSUS Group Inc., which acquired the brand from Caesars Entertainment for $500 million following the 2024 series. Despite the change, Caesars will continue hosting the tournament in Las Vegas for at least the next 20 years, preserving its strong connection to the city.
Reflecting on a Landmark 2024 Series
The 2024 WSOP shattered records, with over 10,000 players entering the Main Event and a prize pool exceeding $94 million. Jonathan Tamayo claimed the title and a $10 million prize, cementing his place in poker history.
Across the series, a staggering $438 million was awarded in prizes through 99 live and 30 online bracelet events. Memorable performances included Scott Seiver winning three bracelets and earning WSOP Player of the Year honors. Poker legends like Nick Schulman, Robert Mizrachi, and Calvin Anderson also added major wins to their résumés.
Sixteen players took home at least $1 million last year, and seven won more than $2 million—raising expectations for 2025.
New Events and Formats for 2025
This year introduces six brand-new events, including the creative “Battle of the Ages”—a $1,000 no-limit hold’em tournament with separate age-based flights (50+ and under 50) that merge to determine a single champion.
Other additions include a $3,000 T.O.R.S.E. event (featuring 2-7 triple draw instead of limit hold’em), a $100,000 high-stakes pot-limit Omaha event, and a $25,000 NLH/PLO hybrid tournament. After player feedback, the $1,500 PLO Double Board Bomb Pot will now feature bomb pots on every hand, amping up the action and speed.
Tech Enhancements and Rule Updates
The WSOP+ mobile app returns to Las Vegas after its debut at WSOP Paradise, offering a more convenient player experience. Available on iOS and Android, it allows players to pre-register, check schedules, track chip counts, and view prize pools in real time. It supports a range of payment methods, including ACH, credit cards, PayPal, Luxon Pay, and pre-funded accounts.
To maintain fairness, the WSOP has also introduced stricter rules limiting electronic device use during the later stages of tournaments.
Something for Every Player
This year’s series spans a wide range of buy-ins, from $300 up to $250,000. Nearly half the events (49) cost $1,500 or less, while 30 are priced at $10,000 or higher. Thirteen high-roller events require a $25,000+ buy-in, with three crossing into six-figure territory. Entering every event would cost over $1 million—illustrating the scale and prestige of the series.
Live Streaming and Media Coverage
PokerGO will stream over 25 events live, beginning May 31 and continuing through the Main Event’s conclusion. Coverage will span multiple formats and stakes, including high-roller tournaments and the Poker Players Championship.
Viewers can access the broadcasts on browsers, mobile devices, Apple TV, Roku, and other platforms. Selected footage will also be featured on PokerGO’s official YouTube channel.