Doyle Brunson Waves Goodbye (Sort of) in Final WSOP Outing

Doyle Brunson has finally thrown in his cards at the World Series of Poker (WSOP) after finishing sixth in the $10,000 No Limit 2-7 Lowball Championship.

Doyle Brunson seen here with Leonardo DiCaprio has said that he may have played his last ever WSOP tournament. (Image: prweb.com)

The iconic poker player was one of the founding members of the WSOP, but his 2018 outing is likely to be his last. Prior to the event, the ten-time bracelet winner put out a simple tweet stating that his time in the spotlight was coming to an end.

“Going to the Rio to play in 2-7 lowball tournament. Probably the last one I’ll ever play,” Brunson wrote on June 11.

Tweet Stirs Emotions

The tweet itself received over 370 comments and prompted players and fans to pack the rail inside the Rio during the final table on June 12. Despite falling short in the finale, Brunson received a round of applause as he headed towards the exit for could be the final time.

In the wake of Brunson’s retirement from tournament poker, hundreds of comments and well wishes were posted on forums, poker sites and social media. Despite more than half a century as a pro, the Godfather of Poker couldn’t quite believe the amount of attention his tweet caused.

“I didn’t mean to make such a fuss over my retirement. I meant probably no more WSOP tournaments. That isn’t written in stone however. When they start the mixed games on high stakes poker, I’ll be there. Probably not so much cash games but I appreciate all the nice thoughts,” read a June 13 post on Brunson’s Twitter feed.

A Poker Pro Until the End

Whether the 84-year-old decides to return to the spotlight remains to be seen. Even though he’s suffered a number of health issues over the year, including treatment for cancer, Brunson has remained one of the best players in the world.

While we may not see him at the WSOP tables again, the high rollers in Bobby’s Room can likely count on Big Papa’s presence for at least a little while longer. One thing is certain though, whatever Brunson decides, he’ll remain an ambassador of the game for as long as possible, something Daniel Negreanu recently discovered.

“Daniel…you are the best tournament player in the world. Why are you educating people? Don’t make the same mistake I did with S/S. I justify my teaching that it created lots of new players that we sorely need. Today there are plenty of players…just saying,” tweeted Brunson as he watched from his new position on the rail.