A 24-year-old topped the field and took home $6 million
The WSOP Paradise $25,000 Super Main Event wrapped up with a surprising and memorable finish, as 24-year-old Yinan Zhou from China claimed the top prize of $6 million. Zhou outlasted a competitive field to secure the title in what has been hailed as the largest guaranteed poker tournament in history.
Marcelo Aziz of Brazil captured attention as the runner-up, earning $4.6 million. Aziz entered the tournament through a regional freeroll, making his achievement even more remarkable. His second-place finish may rank as one of the largest freeroll wins ever recorded, adding a unique twist to the event’s storyline.
The final table was packed with poker talent, including well-known players such as Mustapha Kanit, Michael Addamo, and Justin Bonomo. Liv Boeree made headlines with her rare return to competitive poker, finishing fourth and taking home $2.8 million. Her performance set a new record for the highest single-event earnings by a female poker player, underscoring her skill and legacy in the game.
Despite the event’s ambitious $50 million guarantee, the tournament fell just short, missing its target by 22 entries. Still, the turnout reflected the growing popularity of live poker, cementing its status as a thriving competitive sport.
The WSOP Paradise festival also saw Nick Schulman secure his sixth career bracelet, adding yet another milestone to an impressive career. While the Super Main Event grabbed most of the headlines, Schulman’s victory capped off a successful series.
With its mix of new faces, record-breaking moments, and seasoned champions, the WSOP Paradise showcased poker’s enduring appeal and its ability to deliver drama and excitement on a global stage.
Editor at the Big Blind, is a rising star in gambling journalism with a decade of experience, focusing on clear and accessible communication for a diverse audience.
