It was 2003 when an unknown accountant from Tennessee turned the poker world upside down. Chris Moneymaker, whose last name sounds like a portent of his future success, turned an $86 bet into a whopping $2.5 jackpot. how did he do that?

By winning the Main Event of the World Series of Poker (WSOP), one of the most prestigious tournaments in the world. But what was special was that he qualified online. A novelty that would change the landscape forever.

The moment that changed everything

Chris wasn’t a professional. In fact, he had never played in a live poker tournament before his big win. His journey to becoming a champion began in a virtual room, where he qualified through a satellite tournament for just $86. That was the key to his participation in the 2003 WSOP. It was predominantly dominated by professionals.

His triumph was not only a life-changing event for him personally, but also a turning point for the entire industry. He proved that anyone with sense and a little luck can compete against the best and win. His success inspired millions of people worldwide.

The Moneymaker Effect

After his victory, the poker world experienced an unprecedented boom. The number of participants at the WSOP exploded. But not only that, the number of users of online halls has also increased enormously.

This phenomenon became known as the “Moneymaker Effect.” Now there has been a much greater focus on digital platforms.

An Amateur’s Legacy

His recognition also ushered in a new era. He opened the doors to amateurs and showed that with determination, skill and a touch of luck, anyone can triumph. Some fun facts about him that make his career even more interesting:

• Name Game: His perfectly fitting last name is actually his real family name. His ancestors were minters, which means “money maker” in English.
• Doubts at the start: He had so little confidence in his own ability that he tried to sell his ticket to the main event. Luckily he didn’t find a buyer.
• Wrong calling?: Before becoming a poker pro, he worked as an accountant. He even joked that if he hadn’t won at the WSOP, he would probably still be working as an accountant.
• Random Participation: Originally he wanted to take part in another competition. He missed registration and chose the satellite tournament instead. That paved his way to the WSOP.
• Lucky Charm: He wore a lucky shirt throughout the 2003 WSOP. He didn’t wash it between game days so as not to wash away his luck.
• Family Man: Chris used some of his winnings to pay off his parents’ mortgage. A real moneymaker for the whole family.
• Credit where credit is due: In 2019, he was inducted into the Poker Hall of Fame.
• Video Games: He has his own video game, “Chris Moneymaker’s World Poker Championship.”

Chris, a beginner, has created a worldwide craze. His accidental breakthrough inspired millions to pursue their dream. He remains a symbol of hope and possibility in the world of poker and beyond.