In one of the most inspiring runs of the 2025 World Series of Poker, Courtenay Williams emerged victorious in Event #19: $500 The Colossus, outlasting a massive field to capture his first WSOP gold bracelet and a career-best payday of $500,000. The Colossus is renowned for being one of the most popular and affordable events on the WSOP schedule, drawing thousands of players from around the globe.
Williams’ victory marks a milestone not only for his poker career but also for the legacy of the Colossus as an event that can transform a player’s life in a matter of days.
Beating the Odds in a Massive Field
The 2025 edition of the Colossus once again lived up to its name, drawing over 15,000 entries across several starting flights. With a modest buy-in of just $500, the event gave players of all levels a shot at poker glory. But navigating such a huge field requires patience, focus, and the ability to shift gears as play deepens.
Williams showed all of these qualities throughout the tournament. From the early levels to the final table, he remained composed and consistent, gradually building his stack and avoiding costly mistakes. His strategic decision-making allowed him to stay ahead of the curve as the field thinned out.
Dominance at the Final Table
The final table was filled with talented players, including former bracelet winners and online qualifiers hungry for their first big score. Williams entered with a solid chip count and immediately set the tone by playing aggressively but wisely.
As short stacks were eliminated, Williams adapted his play, shifting between cautious defense and precise aggression. His heads-up battle against his final opponent showcased his ability to read situations, manage pressure, and close out the tournament in style.
A Life-Changing Victory
For Williams, the Colossus win was more than a financial boost—it was a breakthrough moment. In post-win interviews, he reflected on the grind and the significance of finally earning WSOP gold.
“It still doesn’t feel real. You play poker for years, hoping for a shot like this. To actually make it happen in a field this size, it’s surreal. I’m beyond grateful.”
His win also underscores the accessibility of the Colossus. Unlike high roller events, the $500 buy-in allows everyday players the opportunity to dream big—and, as Williams proved, to realize those dreams.
What Comes Next for Williams
Following his victory, Courtenay Williams hinted at continuing his WSOP run by entering a few more bracelet events, including some No-Limit Hold’em formats and potentially a bounty tournament. With newfound confidence and a larger bankroll, he’ll be a name to watch throughout the remainder of the series.
His win has also inspired many recreational players to believe that deep runs and major victories are possible, even in the most daunting of fields.
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