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Chris Moneymaker is an American professional poker player whose 2003 World Series of Poker (WSOP) victory is credited with launching the global poker boom, a phenomenon famously known as the “Moneymaker Effect.” A 2019 Poker Hall of Fame inductee, he remains one of the game’s most influential ambassadors.
Career Earnings & Biggest Results
With total live tournament earnings exceeding $6,200,000 (according to The Hendon Mob), Moneymaker’s career is defined by the most famous underdog story in sports history. His career-best live score of $2,500,000 came from his victory in the 2003 WSOP Main Event, which he entered via an $86 online satellite. Other notable results include a runner-up finish at the 2004 WPT Bay 101 Shooting Star for $200,000 and a deep run in the 2021 WSOP Main Event. His long-standing ambassadorships and personal business ventures, including the Moneymaker Poker Tour, contribute to an estimated net worth of approximately $5 million to $10 million.
Biography & Poker Background
Born Christopher Bryan Moneymaker on November 21, 1975, in Atlanta, Georgia, he was working as an accountant in Tennessee when he won his seat to the WSOP Main Event on PokerStars. His victory as an amateur against a field of seasoned professionals like Sammy Farha and Phil Ivey revolutionized the industry, proving that anyone could become a world champion. Moneymaker served as the primary face of PokerStars for 17 years before joining Americas Cardroom (ACR) as a Team Pro in 2021. He recently expanded his brand by launching the Moneymaker Poker Tour, with planned expansions into the Asian market, including the Philippines.
Play Style & Strategy
Moneymaker is recognized for a “resilient and opportunistic” play style that has evolved significantly since his 2003 amateur debut. While his early success was marked by fearless bluffs – most notably the “Bluff of the Century” against Sammy Farha – his modern strategy emphasizes a deep understanding of tournament variance and adaptive aggression. He is known for his ability to connect with recreational players while maintaining the technical discipline required to compete with modern professionals. His approach focuses on longevity and “growing the game,” utilizing his platform to make poker accessible to a global audience.
Social Media & Online Presence
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![[Interview] Chris Moneymaker on poker today, reveals Moneymaker Poker Tour expansion to the Philippines](/_next/image?url=%2Fassets%2Fimages%2Fnews%2Fnews-placeholder.png&w=1920&q=75)
