On May 15, 2023, the poker industry said goodbye to one of its most decorated players, Doyle Brunson, who had passed away aged 89. The legend was almost unplayable in poker games, earning him the nickname "Texas Dolly." Participating in underground card games gave him the skills needed to become one of the most successful players globally.
Brunson was born in August 1933 in Longworth, Texas, United States. Despite being undersized, the young athlete went on to help Sweetwater High School reach the state tournament in Austin. A night before the semifinal game, which they ultimately lost, his schoolmates introduced Brunson to poker, something he had only seen in movies. That's when his love story with poker started!
Brunson was highly rated at the World Series of Poker (WSOP), having earned ten bracelets and being the only player to win the Main Event twice. Moreover, he became the first player to receive $1 million from tournament winnings.
Brunson did not only excel at playing video poker. He also wrote a couple of books. One of his masterpieces, The Godfather of Poker: The Doyle Brunson Story, documented the remarkable events and struggles he experienced over the years.
In 1978, he published Super/System, providing players with comprehensive poker strategy descriptions. This book revolutionized how players and casino operators approached the game of poker.
The peak of Brunson's career started in 1970 when he was named among the seven players to be invited by Jack Binion to the first WSOP event. Unfortunately, Johnny Moss won that year as he had more fans. After altering the rules, Brunson was victorious in 1976, taking home the grand prize of $220,000. The following year, he successfully defended his title, taking the top prize of US$340,000.
Eighteen years ago, in 2005, he became one of four players to achieve ten or more bracelets in the tournament. Phil Hellmuth is the only player ranking higher than Brunson in this regard, with six bracelets. In 1988, Brunson was inducted into the renowned Poker Hall of Fame.
Brunson's family commented:
“It is with a heavy heart we announce the passing of our father, Doyle Brunson. He was a beloved Christian man, husband, father, and grandfather. We'll have more to say over the coming days as we honor his legacy. Please keep Doyle and our family in your prayers. May he rest in peace.”
On their part, WSOP bid farewell to the player, stating:
“Rest in Peace to the Biggest Legend of Them All. Thank you for being the consummate player and gentleman. No one will ever fill your seat.”
