The World Series of Poker (WSOP) Main Event is widely regarded as the most prestigious and sought-after poker tournament in the world. Each summer, thousands of players from across the globe descend on Las Vegas, all vying for the coveted gold bracelet and a life-changing top prize. In 2025, the Main Event attracted an impressive 9,735 entrants, making it the third-largest field in the tournament’s storied history. The total prize pool soared to over $90.5 million, with $10 million awarded to the champion—a testament to the event’s enduring appeal and global reach.
The Main Event’s popularity stems from its unique blend of professional legends, rising stars, and amateur hopefuls. For many, simply cashing in the tournament—earning at least $15,000—is a dream come true, while the final table guarantees a seven-figure payday for the winner. The tournament’s reputation as the “pinnacle of poker” ensures that it remains a bucket-list experience for players of all backgrounds.
Qualifying for the Main Event Through Online Poker Apps
While the $10,000 buy-in for the Main Event is a significant barrier for many, the rise of online poker has revolutionized the path to participation. Today, players can win their seat in the Main Event by competing in online satellite tournaments—smaller events that award entry packages to the winners. This system has democratized access to the Main Event, allowing players with modest bankrolls to chase poker glory from the comfort of their own homes.
How Online Qualification Works
Satellite Tournaments: Online poker sites and apps host satellite events with low buy-ins. Winners of these satellites earn a seat in the Main Event, often including travel and accommodation packages.
Leading online poker platforms such as GGPoker, 7XL and the WSOP’s own online site regularly run promotions and qualification series, sending hundreds of players to Las Vegas each year.
Step-by-Step Progression: Some qualifiers use a tiered structure, where players advance through multiple rounds of satellites to reach the final prize—a Main Event seat.
The Impact of Online Qualifiers
Online qualifiers have become an integral part of the WSOP Main Event’s identity. Iconic champions like Chris Moneymaker famously won their seats through online satellites, inspiring a new generation of players and fueling the poker boom. Today, thousands of hopefuls attempt to follow in their footsteps each year, adding to the Main Event’s excitement and unpredictability.
Conclusion
The WSOP Main Event continues to capture the imagination of poker players worldwide, thanks to its massive fields, life-changing prizes, and the dream of turning an online satellite win into poker immortality. With the continued growth of online poker (and online casino) and innovative digital solutions like the WSOP+ app, the path to the Main Event has never been more accessible—or more thrilling.
Lynn Martelli is an editor at Readability. She received her MFA in Creative Writing from Antioch University and has worked as an editor for over 10 years. Lynn has edited a wide variety of books, including fiction, non-fiction, memoirs, and more. In her free time, Lynn enjoys reading, writing, and spending time with her family and friends.
