WSOP 2026: Jerome Neppl Clinches First Bracelet of the Season in $500 Industry Employees (Event #3)

The world has met the first champion of the 57th annual World Series of Poker. In a tournament that traditionally celebrates those working behind the scenes or at the tables, Jerome Neppl, an American dealer from New Mexico, secured his career-defining victory and coveted gold bracelet.

The $500 Industry Employees NLH event attracted a total of 906 entries, building an impressive prizepool of $375,990.

Winner Jerome Neppl dominated from Day 1 and maintained his lead through the final day. In a 77-minute heads-up battle, he defeated Sean Hamrick. The decisive hand came when Neppl, holding J h 9 h, hit a set on a board of 9 s 7 s K h 4 h 9 d, defeating his opponent with K d Q d.

For Neppl, it was a monumental achievement, but despite the title and the $64,083 prize, he plans to continue working as a dealer at the WSOP throughout the summer.

Final Table Results for Event #3: $500 Industry Employees No-Limit Hold'em

Place	Player	Country	Winnings
1.	Jerome Neppl	USA	$64,083
2.	Sean Hamrick	USA	$42,680
3.	Skyler Halama	USA	$29,678
4.	Michael Schlittler	USA	$20,988
5.	Nicholas Baldev	USA	$15,098
6.	Andre Welt	Brazil	$11,052
7.	Antony Diep	China	$8,235
8.	Armando Viramontes Serna	USA	$6,247
9.	Jessica Odom	USA	$4,828

Source: WSOP Live, Pokernews