Updated on August 23, 2023

Net Worth $16 million
Total Winnings $6 million
Major Wins 2003 World Series of Poker Main Event
Other Revenue Books, cannabis, CBD, other interests

Chris Moneymaker has been an indispensable figure in the resurgence of poker’s modern appeal. Hailing from Knoxville, Tennessee, his relatable success story – broadcasted live by ESPN – played a significant role in attracting new players to both live events and online platforms. online poker tables throughout the 2000s.

Moneymaker's inspiring journey from humble beginnings to poker stardom exemplified the notion that casual players could achieve remarkable success in high-stakes environments. His victory in 2003 continues to resonate in the poker community. World Series of Poker Main Event Every day, aspiring players flock to online platforms or local casinos, inspired by his legacy and eager to pursue their own poker aspirations.

With his approachable demeanor and likable personality, Moneymaker has been an excellent ambassador for poker, and his memorable last name suits him well.

Aside from securing millions in winnings at the poker tables, Moneymaker has also leveraged his brand through various revenue streams, including endorsements from online poker sites and promotional collaborations. WSOP win into even more revenue streams.

  • Net worth: $16 million
  • The early 2000s marked a turning point for poker, as interest began to surge after years of being overlooked by casinos. This revival was fueled by the launch of events like the World Poker Tour and the World Series of Poker, which introduced hole-card cameras in 2002-03.

Poker Winnings and Key Tournaments

For the first time, audiences could witness not just the staggering amounts high-stakes players were risking but also their strategies and gameplay. When the 2003 WSOP Main Event unfolded at the Horseshoe Casino in Las Vegas, producers sought compelling stories, and Moneymaker certainly delivered.

At that time, he had managed to enter the tournament through an $86 satellite. Burdened with debts from sports betting, he considered selling his tournament entry but found no buyers. poker players As the tournament commenced, Moneymaker aimed to secure even a modest cash prize. However, he continued to advance through the rounds, all while being captured on camera by ESPN. The amateur would eventually find himself in the final stages of the competition.

An accountant and part-time online poker player Most observers expected the experienced professional to outplay the newcomer. Yet, a pivotal hand known as \"the bluff\" turned the tide in Moneymaker's favor, as the more seasoned player opted to forfeit a superior hand, allowing Moneymaker to capitalize on his opportunity in Las Vegas.

Ultimately, Moneymaker emerged victorious, earning both the prestigious championship bracelet and a staggering $2.5 million prize. heads-up against poker veteran Sammy Farha.

The media coverage surrounding his win, coupled with the explosion of televised poker and his astounding personal narrative, catapulted Moneymaker to international fame. His success drastically transformed his life. the bluff of the century He recollected in a 2020 interview, \"It undeniably altered my existence. I initially claimed it wouldn’t, but it did. When people start associating an effect with your name, it inevitably brings change, whether you are prepared for it or not.\"

Afterwards, Moneymaker left his day job about eight months later. Describing his new routine, he mentioned, \"Life feels quite normal now; I wake up, take my kids to school, pick them up, and take them to their activities. I enjoy a typical family existence, settling them down at night and repeating it all the next day. I hardly partake in any media events or similar activities during my home time.\"

His monumental win opened doors to numerous opportunities, including a lengthy sponsorship with one of the leading online poker platforms. His well-known surname became extremely recognizable among poker enthusiasts, making him an asset to any promotional roster. This association, of course, came with substantial financial benefits for the champion.

When that initial sponsorship came to an end in late 2020 after an impressive 17-year partnership, Moneymaker did not remain without an endorsement for long. He quickly aligned himself with another company just a couple of months later. Although details of the deal were not made public, it’s clear that Moneymaker is actively promoting the new brand and is likely receiving generous compensation. told Cigar Snob In poker, Moneymaker has recorded several notable achievements. Recently, he placed 5th at the $262,500 No-Limit Hold'em Invitational during the 2023 Triton Poker Super High Roller Series in London, which netted him $2,030,000, marking his second-largest cash prize ever. In 2004, he was the runner-up at the WPT May 101 Shooting Stars event, earning $200,000. He also finished in second place at the NBC National Heads Up Poker Championship in 2011, obtaining $300,000.

Moneymaker's induction into the Poker Hall of Fame in 2019 further solidified his legacy in the poker community, a fitting recognition for someone who has impacted the game profoundly.

Sponsorship and the Poker Hall of Fame

Reflecting on this honor, Moneymaker expressed gratitude for his family, stating, \"I feel incredibly honored and happy. This will be a fantastic memory for my kids as they grow up.\"

Being a prominent figure in poker has certainly brought lucrative opportunities for Moneymaker. His long-standing sponsorship in the online poker world became his main occupation after he stepped away from accounting.

Moneymaker has traveled extensively to represent the online poker brand, participating in some of the industry’s most significant live tournaments. As a favorite among fans, the Hall of Famer remains accessible, posing for pictures and signing autographs.

Many other players appreciate having this poker legend at their tables during major tournaments.

Moneymaker’s current sponsorship continues along this path. However, his marriage ended shortly after his Main Event victory, citing his demanding travel schedule and contrasting expectations as contributing factors. While the financial specifics were not disclosed, it undoubtedly impacted his overall net worth.

He candidly shared in an ESPN interview, \"To be honest, it wasn't successful. She didn't welcome the travel, and we just weren't compatible anymore.\"

Other Income Outside Poker

Outside his contributions to the poker and gaming world, Moneymaker published his autobiography in 2005 titled Moneymaker: How an Amateur Poker Player turned $40 into $2.5 Million at the World Series of Poker. The book has received acclaim from poker enthusiasts for its authenticity and unique insights. Additionally, he contributed a chapter to a strategy book by Jonathan Little.

It's probable that Moneymaker has garnered income through various promotions and appearances over the years. He appears to be someone who embraces diverse business ventures. poker tournament In an interview with Cigar Snob magazine, he mentioned, \"I’m somewhat involved in the cannabis industry. Those plus crypto investments are areas I consistently follow. I have a small stake in a CBD oil venture, and I’m exploring opportunities in the whiskey sector as well.\"

He elaborated, \"You can purchase whiskey barrels, age them for four years, and then either sell them back or rebrand them to create your own whiskey line. The investment is around $800 per barrel, and it can yield $1,600 after aging.\"

Reproducing the enchantment of the 2003 WSOP is unlikely, but poker enthusiasts still remember Moneymaker's impact. His win motivated countless players to explore the game.

Nearly twenty years after his iconic victory, Moneymaker's significance within the poker realm remains strong.

With over 10 million registered players globally, 888poker stands as the fastest-growing online poker room, attracting a new member every 12 seconds. Since its inception in 1997, 888 has been a leader in the online gaming sector, consistently promoting safe and responsible gaming practices. We are among the largest and most trusted brands, offering a wide array of games, high-stakes tournaments, and exhilarating live events for poker aficionados around the world. Excelling at No-Limit Hold'em .

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Originally Published on September 3, 2022

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