The French poker pro was last seen at a WSOP Final Table more than 12 years ago
After a long stretch without a major victory, French poker pro Patrick Bueno has captured a World Series of Poker (WSOP) title, bringing an end to a dry spell that spanned over a decade. Bueno, who hadn’t cashed at a WSOP event since 2008, emerged victorious at the 2024 WSOP Europe, winning Event #10: €2,000 (US$2,200) 8-Game for a prize of €43,400 (US$47,600) and his first WSOP gold bracelet.
Bueno’s return to the spotlight has been a long time coming. His last notable appearance was in the 2008 WSOP $50,000 H.O.R.S.E. Championship, where he placed eighth at a final table that featured poker icons like Scotty Nguyen and Barry Greenstein. After that, Bueno all but disappeared from the WSOP scene for 16 years, only to make a triumphant comeback this year.
His victory at King’s Resort in Rozvadov was not just a stroke of luck, but rather a result of his deep experience in mixed games. “My experience helped, for sure, because I played a lot of mixed games in my life,” Bueno shared after his win. He had been one of 90 players to enter the event, and despite starting Day 2 in sixth place, he navigated his way through the field and seized the title at the final table.
The final hand saw Bueno go heads-up against Daniel Habl in a 2-7 Triple Draw game, a format Bueno favors. His superior skill in the game ultimately earned him the victory. This win not only gives Bueno his first WSOP bracelet but also marks the end of a 16-year journey back to the winner’s circle.
