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Justin Bonomo is one of the most successful and respected professional poker players in history. His live tournament earnings exceed $65 million, and he ranks second on the all-time money list. So, how did he become a Poker giant and stun the world with his skills? Let’s find out.
Justin Bonomo’s Early Beginnings: Introduction To Poker
Justin Bonomo was born on 30 September 1985, in the United States. Bonomo’s journey began with a passion for card games, including Magic: The Gathering, which is often seen as a strong foundation for building strategic thinking. He entered the poker scene at a young age, making his first notable live appearance at the 2005 European Poker Tour (EPT) Deauville, where he finished fourth, signaling the start of a remarkable career.
Career Milestones and Highlights
Justin Bonomo quickly established himself as one of the most formidable competitors on the international circuit. His success includes:
- 2008 EPT Barcelona victory, earning €770,000.
- Strong World Poker Tour (WPT) finishes, including 4th place in the 2008 WPT Championship ($748,885) and 3rd in the 2009 Bellagio Five-Star World Poker Classic ($510,600).
- Winning the $300,000 Super High Roller Bowl in Las Vegas for $5 million.
- Claiming the Super High Roller Bowl China with a prize of nearly $4.82 million.
- Securing the $1 million Big One for One Drop, the largest prize in poker history at the time.
An Incredible WSOP Profile
His World Series of Poker (WSOP) journey has been nothing short of spectacular. With 55 cashes, 19 final tables, and three bracelets to his name, he has amassed over $14 million in WSOP winnings alone. His first bracelet came in 2014 in the $1,500 No-Limit Hold’em Six-Handed event, followed by victories in the prestigious $10,000 Heads-Up No-Limit Hold’em Championship. The $1,000,000 Big One for One Drop in 2018 gave him a staggering $10 million prize.
Biggest Wins By Prize Money
| Date | Event | Place | Prize (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jul 2018 | WSOP $1,000,000 Big One for One Drop | 1st | $10,000,000 |
| May 2018 | Super High Roller Bowl IV (Las Vegas) | 1st | $5,000,000 |
| Mar 2018 | Super High Roller Bowl China | 1st | $4,823,077 |
| Jan 2018 | PCA $100,000 Super High Roller | 2nd | $1,077,800 |
| Dec 2021 | WPT Five Diamond $100K High Roller | 1st | $928,200 |
| Jun 2018 | WSOP $10,000 Heads-Up No Limit Hold’em Championship | 1st | $185,965 |
| Jun 2014 | WSOP $1,500 No Limit Hold’em Six Handed | 1st | $449,980 |
| Dec 2024 | WSOP Super Main Event (Paradise Festival) | 7th | $1,300,000 |
Justin Bonomo’s Playing Style And Recent Legacy
Justin Bonomo is known for his strategy, adaptability, and calm attitude. Bonomo combines analytics with psychology. His ability to read opponents and adjust the tactics accordingly across various formats has earned him respect from peers and fans alike. As of 2025, Bonomo remains an active force in the poker world, with recent notable finishes including a 7th place in the $50 million guaranteed WSOP Super Main Event, earning $1.3 million. His career totals include 36 tournament wins and 254 cashes, reflecting remarkable consistency at the highest levels.
Total Earnings And Achievements
- Total live earnings: Over $65.6 million (third on the all-time money list as of June 2025).
- WSOP bracelets: 3.
- WSOP cashes: 73.
- WSOP final tables: 19.
Also Read: Stephen Chidwick: The Calm Champion Of Poker
