A news that the poker world would prefer to call a bluff. Doyle Brunson, a two-time American world champion, has died at the age of 89. He was recognized by his peers as the "godfather of poker".
"It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our father, Doyle Brunson. He was a beloved Christian, husband, father and grandfather," his family wrote in a statement tweeted Monday by the poker player's agent, Brian Balsbaugh. The cause of death has not yet been revealed.
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— Brian Balsbaugh (@Balsbaugh) May 15, 2023
Doyle Brunson has won 10 World Series of Poker (WSP) tournaments and was a two-time world champion, in 1976 and 1977. Born in Texas, often wearing a cowboy hat, the man has won more than $6 million in poker tournaments.
In 1979, he wrote one of his first books on poker strategy, "Super System", which is considered a bible of this game.
A series of tributes
His long-time opponent Daniel Negreanu considered him "a legend". "There will never be another Doyle Brunson," he tweeted. "Many people will miss the Godfather of Poker."
Five-time WSP winner Scotty Nguyen said on Twitter that he "couldn't believe this day has arrived." "You will always remain in our hearts, the man, the myth, the legend and the GODDOR of poker, man!" he added. Actor James Wood also paid tribute to Brunson: "It's heartbreaking. Doyle Brunson, the greatest poker player of all time, cashed out his chips."
Doyle Brunson played basketball in college, but a knee injury ended his hopes of turning professional. He was inducted into the Poker Hall of Fame in 1988.
