The 2025 World Series of Poker (WSOP) Main Event returned for Day 2 with thousands of players chasing poker glory and the chance at a life-changing $10 million top prize. As chips shuffled and dreams built or broke apart in the heart of Las Vegas, the atmosphere was electric inside the Horseshoe and Paris casinos.

With the tournament officially confirmed as the third-largest Main Event in WSOP history, the stakes have never felt higher. Day 2 was packed with dramatic hands, rising stars, and big names making bold moves.

Record-Breaking Field Brings Fierce Competition

This year’s Main Event attracted an astounding field of 10,231 entrants, creating a prize pool of over $90.5 million. The massive turnout ensured that players not only faced tough opponents but also navigated complex table dynamics throughout the day.

As the day unfolded, table draws featured a mix of amateurs, rising grinders, and former champions—all fighting for chips and position ahead of the money bubble.

San Kim Takes Commanding Lead

Among the standout performers on Day 2 was San Kim, who surged into the chip lead with over 900,000 in his stack by day’s end. Kim demonstrated a balanced approach, mixing well-timed aggression with disciplined folds, and quickly became a player to watch moving into Day 3.

His ability to apply pressure during key pots earned admiration from commentators and opponents alike, signaling that he’s not just running hot—he’s playing sharp.

Notable Names Make Moves

Day 2 also saw deep runs from several prominent poker pros:

• Jesse Lonis, a consistent performer on the circuit, finished strong with a healthy stack and remains one of the top contenders.

• Nicholas Rigby, known for his unpredictable style and past WSOP runs, found traction early and used his big stack to chip up throughout the day.

• Maria Ho and Daniel Negreanu both advanced, adding star power to an already elite field.

Meanwhile, several former champions, including Joe Hachem and Hossein Ensan, fell short of advancing, reminding everyone just how brutal the Main Event can be.

Tactical Shifts and Table Dynamics

As blinds increased and chip stacks deepened, Day 2 revealed more than just lucky hands—it highlighted strategic adaptability. Players were seen adjusting their preflop ranges, targeting weaker opponents, and leveraging table position to extract value.

Many tables turned into battlegrounds of psychological warfare, especially in the final levels of the day, as players jockeyed for position ahead of the upcoming money bubble on Day 3.

What’s Next on Day 3?

With around half the field remaining, Day 3 promises bubble tension, major chip swings, and defining moments that will shape the rest of the tournament. As the remaining players eye the payout ladder and a run toward the final table, every hand becomes a step closer—or further away—from poker immortality.

Coverage will continue with live updates, player spotlights, and expert commentary as the action intensifies.