In a year packed with unforgettable moments, 2024’s World Series of Poker (WSOP) delivered an iconic storyline: two of poker’s most celebrated players, Phil Ivey and Daniel Negreanu, ended years-long bracelet droughts. These victories not only reaffirmed their greatness but added new layers to their already legendary careers.
Phil Ivey Adds Bracelet No. 11 in Signature Style
For Phil Ivey, poker isn’t just a game—it’s an art form. Known for his laser focus and near-mystical reads, Ivey’s reputation as one of poker’s all-time greats was cemented long ago. But even legends face dry spells. Before this year, his last bracelet win was in 2014, leaving fans wondering when—or if—number 11 would come.
That question was answered emphatically at the $10,000 2-7 Triple Draw Championship. True to form, Ivey demonstrated a masterclass in skill and composure, taking down a field stacked with the game’s elite. The victory marked his 11th WSOP bracelet, solidifying his position as second on the all-time bracelet leaderboard behind Phil Hellmuth.
The win was classic Ivey—dominating his opponents with a mix of psychological pressure and technical precision. Fans were thrilled to see the poker icon back on top, proving yet again why he remains one of the most feared players at any table.
Daniel Negreanu’s Poker Players Championship Triumph
If Ivey is poker’s enigma, Daniel Negreanu is its charismatic heart. The Canadian superstar, known for his unmatched table talk and uncanny ability to read opponents, ended an 11-year bracelet drought with a victory in the $50,000 Poker Players Championship (PPC). For Negreanu, this wasn’t just another win—it was the crowning jewel in a storied career.
Negreanu’s last bracelet came in 2013 at the WSOP Europe €25,600 High Roller. Over the following decade, he came painfully close to adding to his collection, with five runner-up finishes and numerous final tables. The drought wasn’t for lack of effort. In 2023, he recorded a $2.2 million loss in tournament buy-ins, a stark reminder of poker’s brutal swings.
The tide began to turn in 2024. Early in the year, Negreanu found success in high-roller events, winning two PokerGO tournaments and building momentum. By the time he entered the PPC, he was ready to prove he still belonged among the game’s best. After navigating an intense final table, Negreanu secured his seventh bracelet and completed what many consider the ultimate achievement in mixed-game poker.
A Shared Legacy: Poker’s Boom-Era Titans
Ivey and Negreanu’s careers have always been intertwined. They rose to fame during poker’s early 2000s boom, a time when televised tournaments introduced millions to the game. Together, they were the faces of poker’s golden era, blending skill with star power to draw in new fans.
Both players transcended poker, becoming cultural icons in their own right. Ivey’s stoic presence made him a mythical figure, while Negreanu’s relatability and openness endeared him to fans worldwide. Their victories in 2024 felt like a throwback to poker’s heyday, a reminder of why they became the legends they are.
What These Wins Mean for Poker
The impact of these wins goes beyond the trophies. For fans, seeing Ivey and Negreanu back in the winner’s circle was a powerful statement: poker’s legends still have what it takes to compete at the highest level. It also served as inspiration for a new generation of players, proving that perseverance and evolution are key to longevity in the game.
Negreanu’s victory, in particular, underscored the importance of adaptability. His public struggles in 2023 and subsequent turnaround in 2024 highlight how even the best must continually refine their strategies to stay competitive. Meanwhile, Ivey’s performance reaffirmed the timelessness of pure skill and instinct.
To put these achievements in perspective, here’s a quick comparison of Ivey and Negreanu’s WSOP resumes:
| Player | Bracelets | WSOP Cashes | Career Earnings (WSOP) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Phil Ivey | 11 | 76 | $9.2 million |
| Daniel Negreanu | 7 | 148 | $21.7 million |
Negreanu’s impressive number of cashes reflects his consistency over the years, while Ivey’s staggering win rate underscores his ability to close out tournaments.
Fans React: Nostalgia Meets Celebration
Social media erupted with celebrations following the duo’s victories. Longtime fans reminisced about the days when Ivey and Negreanu dominated the felt, while newer fans marvelled at their enduring excellence.
- “Watching Ivey win again is like seeing Jordan sink a game-winner. Absolute GOAT stuff!” one fan tweeted.
- Another commented, “Negreanu’s bracelet win gave me chills. He’s the reason I started playing poker.”
Their wins were more than just individual milestones—they were moments that brought the poker community together.
