British poker player William Kassouf is drawing attention once again during the 2025 World Series of Poker (WSOP) Main Event. Known for his controversial and boisterous style from his memorable 2016 WSOP performance, Kassouf is back on a feature table, entertaining both his opponents and spectators with his signature stream-of-consciousness chatter.
On Day 3 of the $10,000 No-limit Hold’em World Championship, Kassouf maintained a top-100 chip stack despite losing a portion of his chips during the session. The money bubble burst with 1,461 players still in the competition, and the minimum cash awarded at this stage is $15,000.
Reflecting on his past and the uncanny connection he feels with U.S. politics, Kassouf noted, “I told my friends, I was half joking, but months ago I said, ‘This is going to be my year.’ … Some people call me the Donald Trump of poker because I’m polarizing and controversial and chaotic.” His playful self-comparison emphasizes his knack for stirring drama at the table, much like the attention surrounding political figures.
Kassouf’s charisma and flair for the dramatic have not only made him a fan favorite but have also led to discussions among fellow players about the entertainment value he brings to the game. His previous run in the 2016 Main Event, where he placed 17th, is marked by notable moments, including the birth of his catchphrase “nine high, like a boss.”
While Kassouf has been relatively quiet in the WSOP in recent years, garnering fewer high-profile bushels and focusing on lower-stakes events, he still boasts over $1.7 million in live tournament earnings. His presence at the main event this year might signal a resurgence in his competitive poker career.
Among the notable players who faced early exits in the tournament are the reigning champion Jonathan Tamayo, Phil Hellmuth, and Daniel Negreanu, highlighting the unpredictable nature of the Main Event and Kassouf’s returning thrill as a dark horse contender.
As the tournament progresses, players and fans alike are curious to see if Kassouf can replicate or exceed his past performances, potentially marking this year as a true comeback for the charismatic poker pro.