WSOPE 2026: Marius Kudzmanas Dominates Record Main Event and Wins €2,000,000, Christopher Nguyen Triumphs in Super High Roller

Historic Triumph for Lithuania in the Main Event

This year’s Main Event benefitted from its move to Prague and a reduced €5,300 buy-in, tripling the previous participation record from 2023. The tournament attracted players from 71 countries, resulting in 2,617 entries and a record prizepool of €13,085,000.

The final table of the WSOPE Main Event in Prague was filled with drama from the start, as the initial lead of chipleader Hengtao Zhu was gradually diminished by seasoned pros.

One such pro was Marius Kudzmanas. Beginning the day in the middle of the pack, pivotal hands propelled him forward. Notably, he knocked out Thomas Eychenne when Kudzmanas's 9 h 9 d hit a set against K h K d.

In the final heads-up, he faced Japan's Akihiro Konishi, who started with a slight lead. However, the experienced Lithuanian took control with aggressive play, securing a commanding lead.

In the decisive hand, Konishi went all-in with K d K c on a flop of 7 s 5 d 4 h. Kudzmanas called with 7 d 6 c. The turn 7 h gave Kudzmanas trips, and the river J d sealed the fate of the Japanese player.

This marked Kudzmanas's third WSOP bracelet and his first live tournament victory, allowing him to receive the trophy from reigning world champion Michael Mizrachi. He couldn't hide his emotions after his title win: “The Main Event is the most special tournament of them all... it’s the best feeling in the world.”

Final Table Results – €5,300 WSOPE Main Event:

Nguyen's Triumph and Another Disappointment for Astedt

German professional Christopher Nguyen showcased an impressive performance in the €20,800 Super High Roller (Event #11), securing his first gold bracelet. The tournament drew 242 entries, generating a prizepool of €4,840,000 and a seven-figure winner's prize.

Nguyen’s journey to victory wasn’t without challenges. Although he held half the chips in play after the first break, a failed bluff against Alex Anton cut his stack significantly. He managed to climb back, ultimately defeating China’s Ren Lin heads-up. In the final hand, Nguyen’s K s 7 h overcame Lin’s T c 9 s on a board of A s 5 h 2 c 2 d K h.

The Swedish phenom Niklas “Lena900” Astedt faced disappointment again, entering the final day as chipleader but finishing fifth. Nguyen earned €1,100,000 for the win, marking his third seven-figure victory in the past 16 months.

Final Table Results – €20,800 Super High Roller:

Source: WSOP Live