The 2025 World Series of Poker (WSOP) Main Event has officially entered its most competitive phase as the tournament surged past the money bubble with 522 players left standing. From a staggering field of over 10,000 hopefuls, the battle for the $10,000,000 top prize is now tighter than ever, with seasoned professionals and fresh faces eyeing a seat at the final table.

With the bubble burst on Day 4, players can now shift their focus from survival to stack-building as the deeper pay jumps begin to loom on the horizon.

Tension as the Bubble Bursts

Day 4 of the Main Event brought the usual mix of anxiety, tight play, and dramatic eliminations. The hand that sealed the bubble’s fate saw an unfortunate player’s top pair fall to a rivered two pair, triggering applause across the tournament floor. For the remaining 1,519 players, the pressure gave way to relief as they secured a guaranteed payout.

The field has since narrowed to 522 players, meaning over 1,000 hopefuls were eliminated in a single day as stacks collided and short stacks were forced into high-variance spots.

Big Names Still in Contention

Among the 522 survivors are several notable names, including former champions, rising stars, and online phenoms. Former Main Event winner Greg Merson, still in the mix, continues to prove his longevity in the game. Other recognizable names include Chance Kornuth, Adrian Mateos, and Maria Ho—each one adding credibility and star power to the chase.

Their deep runs will be closely watched, as poker fans around the world anticipate dramatic showdowns in the coming days.

The Road Ahead: Day 5 and Beyond

With Day 5 on the horizon, blinds will rise, average stacks will shrink, and decision-making will become more crucial than ever. The path to the final table now demands elite play, mental endurance, and the ability to read opponents under pressure.

For many, the next goal is not just survival, but securing a spot in the final 100—a milestone that brings both prestige and a sizable leap in payouts.

Momentum and Strategy

Players now face a shift in tournament dynamics. With the bubble in the rear-view mirror, short stacks will be forced to gamble more often, while big stacks will look to apply pressure. Knowing when to switch gears, bluff, or tighten up becomes key to progressing further.

As the tournament transitions into its deepest days, chip leaders will emerge and stories of comeback runs and heartbreak eliminations will shape the narrative of the 2025 Main Event.