Doyle Brunson

Doyle Brunson was born on August 10, 1933, in Longworth, Texas. A talented athlete, he earned a basketball scholarship to Hardin-Simmons University and was considered a potential NBA prospect. However, a serious knee injury ended his athletic dreams. This setback led him to the world of poker, where he would become one of the most legendary figures in the game's history.

After recovering from his injury, Brunson began playing poker professionally in the 1960s, traveling throughout Texas and the American South with a group of road gamblers. These dangerous years, often playing in illegal games and dealing with cheaters, forged his skills and toughness. When the World Series of Poker began in 1970, Brunson was perfectly positioned to dominate, winning back-to-back Main Events in 1976 and 1977 with the same hand: 10-2.

Brunson's style epitomizes aggressive Texas poker. He pioneered many concepts that are now fundamental, including the squeeze play and aggressive position-based play. His willingness to put his entire stack at risk with marginal holdings when he sensed weakness revolutionized tournament poker. The hand 10-2 offsuit is now famously called "Doyle Brunson" in his honor.

Doyle Brunson's greatest contribution to poker may be his 1978 book "Super/System: A Course in Power Poker." This groundbreaking work was the first comprehensive strategy guide written by professional players and is still considered essential reading. He also helped legitimize poker as a mainstream pursuit through his decades of television appearances and his role in bringing poker to the internet age.

Known as the "Godfather of Poker," Doyle Brunson's influence on the game cannot be overstated. With 10 WSOP bracelets spanning nearly four decades, he demonstrated remarkable longevity at the highest levels. His books, television appearances, and role as an ambassador for poker helped transform it from a back-room game into a global phenomenon. He passed away in 2023 at age 89, leaving behind an unmatched legacy.