Through the Lens: Approaching the Finish Line

THREE REMAIN TO FEND FOR THE $10 MILLION TOP PRIZE

Posted July 16, 2019 by Drew Amato

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It’s hard to believe the summer has come and gone as we embark on the final day of the 2019 World Series of Poker. The sounds of ruffling chips that have filled the convention center at the Rio All-Suites Hotel & Casino over the last seven weeks has now transformed into the sound of scissor lifts scurrying across the floor, and tables being broken down.

In just a few hours however, the final stretch begins. The Amazon room will be packed full of Canadians, Germans, and Italians as Hossein Ensan, Alex Livingston, and Dario Sammartino return to battle it out for the title of world champion and $10,000,000.

Last night was exciting as short stacks rose, big stacks fell, and those three inched closer to completing the ultimate poker dream. Kevin Maahs was the first to hit the exit last night, followed by Garry Gates in fourth. Below is a collection of some of my favorite images from last nights play, which easily has been the most animated and emotional of the summer. Can’t wait for tonight!

Dario Sammartino’s rail has taken the Super Dario angle to a whole new level, breaking out the level up sign when he doubled early on in last nights play. 
Dario Sammartino ran to his rail after the double and nearly jumped the stage into their arms.
Kevin Maahs was left wondering “what if” after his ace-ten failed to improve against the pocket nines of Hossein Ensan.
Kevin Maahs received quite a lot of criticism over the last few days for his tanking and unusual table antics, but in a post bust out interview Maahs explained he could care less about the critics, he was just enjoying himself.
Garry Gates has easily become the fan favorite over the last few days. Despite spiraling downwards after coming into the day second in chips, Gates’ attitude and positive outlook have left an impression on just about everyone who’s covered him over the last few days. 
Gates was gracious in defeat, saying in his exit interview “We’ve already won guys, we won.” The comment was in regards to a question Kara Scott asked him about the love and support he has received on his run here in the Main Event. 

Watch the final table of the WSOP Main Event on ESPN and PokerGO in non-ESPN affiliated regions. Read about ninth-place finisher Milos Skrbic’s story right here. Read the story of Timothy Su, who finished in eight-place, right here. Read about Kevin Maah’s elimination in fifth place right here.