In a remarkable display of patience and strategic brilliance, Qinghai Pan has emerged as the champion of the prestigious $10,000 Seven Card Stud Hi-Lo 8 or Better Championship at the 2025 World Series of Poker (WSOP). The event, known for attracting some of the best mixed-game players in the world, saw Pan outlast an elite field to claim his first WSOP gold bracelet and a hefty six-figure payday.

A Victory Years in the Making

Qinghai Pan has been a regular presence in high-stakes mixed-game events for several years, consistently cashing in various formats but falling just short of a major title—until now. His victory at this championship event marks a turning point in his poker career, cementing his status as one of the top players in the Stud Hi-Lo discipline.

The tournament featured a field filled with seasoned pros and WSOP bracelet winners, but Pan remained steady throughout, leveraging deep knowledge of split-pot strategy and disciplined hand selection.

Final Table Recap

The final table was a thrilling mix of calculated aggression and intense endurance. Pan faced off against some of the game’s most formidable names, including prior bracelet holders and online legends. With a deep structure and long betting rounds, the $10K Stud Hi-Lo final table tested each player’s mental stamina and technical ability.

Pan entered the final table near the middle of the chip counts but methodically chipped away at opponents with strong high-low hand combinations and well-timed scoops. In the heads-up match, he dominated the final stretch, reading his opponent’s tendencies and adjusting accordingly to close out the tournament.

Stud Hi-Lo’s Increasing Popularity

Seven Card Stud Hi-Lo 8 or Better, often simply called Stud Hi-Lo, has become one of the most respected games among poker purists. It requires players to not only consider high and low hands simultaneously but also to manage bets across multiple betting streets. The depth and complexity of the game mean that luck plays a smaller role, favoring players with experience and analytical thinking.

Pan’s win further highlights the value of mastering split-pot strategies, especially as WSOP continues to spotlight non-Hold’em events in its championship lineup.

Player Reactions and Future Prospects

In post-win interviews, Pan expressed gratitude and humility, crediting years of grinding and learning from other elite players. His calm demeanor and precise decision-making won praise from commentators and fellow pros alike.

Many now view Pan as a serious contender for the WSOP Player of the Year leaderboard. With the remainder of the series still ahead, fans are eager to see if he can maintain his momentum and make deep runs in additional mixed-game events.