Sports
May 15, 2023 | 12:09 am
LAS VEGAS – Doyle Brunson, one of the most influential poker players of all time and a two-time world champion, died Sunday, according to his agent.
Brunson was 89.
Brunson’s agent, Brian Balsbaugh, released a statement from the family on Twitter.
The statement read: “It is with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of our father, Doyle Brunson. “He was a loving Christian man, husband, father and grandfather. We will have much to talk about in the coming days as we celebrate his legacy. Please keep Doyle and our family in your prayers. May he rest in peace.
Brunson, known as the Father of Poker and also known as “Texas Dolly”, has won 10 World Series of Poker tournaments – just behind Phil Helmuth’s 16.
He won the World Championships in 1976 and 1977 and was inducted into the Poker Hall of Fame in 1988.
In the year In 1979, he wrote a book called “The Super System”, which was one of the first books on poker strategy and had a lasting impact that helped bring many others to the game.
Five-time WSOP winner Scotty Nguyen tweeted: “Can’t believe this day has come – you will always be in our hearts, the man, the legend, the legend and the godfather of poker’s baby! Mr. Brunson, you have done what a poker baby! Thank you for giving to all of us! Mr. Doyle Brunson, godfather of poker.
His influence carried far beyond poker.
“This is heartbreaking,” actor James Woods tweeted. “The greatest poker player that ever lived, Doyle Brunson, cashed in his chips.
“Doyle was so kind and helpful to me. He introduced me to my late dear brother and all my friends. A gentleman and a true legend.”