Jonathan Duhamel made history in 2010 by becoming the first Canadian player to win the World Series of Poker (WSOP) Main Event. His landmark victory not only catapulted him into the global poker spotlight but also inspired a new generation of Canadian poker enthusiasts. With a fearless playing style and a sharp strategic mind, Duhamel has continued to prove that his success was no one-time feat.
Early Life and Path to Poker
Born on August 24, 1987, in Boucherville, Quebec, Jonathan Duhamel initially pursued a degree in finance at the Université du Québec à Montréal. However, his passion for poker soon took precedence. He began playing online and in local games during his college years and quickly developed a reputation for being a smart and aggressive competitor.
Duhamel decided to drop out of university to focus entirely on poker — a bold decision that would soon pay off in life-changing fashion.
Historic Win at the 2010 WSOP Main Event
Duhamel entered the 2010 WSOP Main Event alongside a field of 7,319 players, one of the largest in the tournament’s history at the time. Throughout the competition, he showcased exceptional patience, strategic foresight, and the ability to make crucial moves under pressure.
He reached the November Nine as one of the chip leaders and ultimately defeated John Racener heads-up to capture the Main Event bracelet and $8.94 million in prize money. With this victory, Duhamel became the first Canadian to win the WSOP Main Event, etching his name in poker history.
Continued Success and Additional WSOP Bracelets
Following his Main Event triumph, Duhamel remained active in high-stakes tournaments around the world. In 2015, he added to his legacy by winning two more WSOP bracelets.
The first came in the $111,111 High Roller for One Drop, where he outlasted a star-studded field to win $3.99 million, his second-largest career score. Later that year, he claimed another bracelet in the €25,600 High Roller at the WSOP Europe in Berlin, earning nearly €554,000.
These victories demonstrated his skill across various formats and field sizes, proving he could compete and succeed against the world’s best players.
Playing Style and Impact
Duhamel is known for his aggressive yet controlled playing style, able to apply pressure without losing balance. His ability to adjust to opponents and game dynamics makes him a dangerous presence at any table. He has often emphasized mental strength and preparation as key elements of his success.
Beyond his results, Duhamel’s win had a cultural impact, boosting poker’s popularity in Canada and motivating young players to chase their dreams.
Challenges and Resilience
In 2011, Duhamel was the victim of a violent robbery at his home, an event that shocked the poker community. Despite this traumatic experience, he showed incredible resilience by returning to the tables and continuing his career with determination and professionalism.
His ability to overcome adversity further elevated his standing within the poker world.
