Event #25: $500 Freezeout NLH proved its popularity by drawing a total of 4,100 entries to the Horseshoe & Paris Las Vegas casino. The massive turnout generated a prizepool of $1,701,500, shared among the top 615 players. With 30-minute levels, the field was whittled down to a final table in just under two days of play.
One of the tournament's most compelling stories was Alexander Ho's performance. A recent optometry graduate, Ho made it to his first-ever WSOP final table. Although he finished in 8th place, his “two-year trial” as a professional poker player started off on a high note.
Finishing just one spot ahead was the seasoned Chris “Big Huni” Hunichen, the only final table player with a previous WSOP title.
Brayden Lou took control in the tournament's closing phase. Despite entering heads-up with a massive lead, Hoffman managed two double-ups and briefly took the lead. The decisive moment came when Lou, holding A c A s, instantly called Hoffman's all-in with A d J d. The board 3 h 4 d 4 c K c 5 d held, sealing Brayden's victory.
Final Table Results of Event #25: $500 Freezeout No-Limit Hold'em
|
Place |
Player |
Country |
Winnings |
|
1. |
Brayden Lou |
USA |
$196,066 |
|
2. |
Jason Hoffman |
USA |
$130,441 |
|
3. |
Tianyi Ma |
China |
$96,368 |
|
4. |
Aaron Hendi |
USA |
$71,806 |
|
5. |
Sam Ruha |
Australia |
$53,969 |
|
6. |
James Wong |
USA |
$40,916 |
|
7. |
Chris Hunichen |
USA |
$31,294 |
|
8. |
Alexander Ho |
USA |
$24,148 |
|
9. |
Edgar Antezana |
South Africa |
$18,801 |

Source: WSOP
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