Tom McEvoy: A Champion On and Off the Felt
Tom McEvoy is a name etched in poker history, not just for his skill at the table, but for the impact he's made on the game itself. Best known for winning the 1983 World Series of Poker (WSOP) Main Event, McEvoy is a four-time WSOP bracelet winner and one of the game’s enduring legends.
While winning the Main Event remains one of his most cherished memories, McEvoy considers his 2013 induction into the Poker Hall of Fame nearly as meaningful. The moment carried emotional weight, especially after five previous nominations fell short. It was a profoundly personal achievement as well; his father had been honored in the Cutlery Hall of Fame, and being inducted into poker’s most prestigious circle felt like following in his father’s footsteps in his own way.
McEvoy is also remembered for his contributions beyond the felt. Originally an accountant, he became a pioneer in advocating for smoke-free poker environments. In 1998, he organized the first non-smoking poker tournament and, by 2002, had successfully convinced the WSOP to adopt a non-smoking policy. This initiative forever changed the landscape of live poker.
Even in the later stages of his career, McEvoy remains committed to competing. When asked how he maintains his stamina during long tournament days, he said he adjusted his lifestyle, going to bed earlier, cutting sugar in the days before playing, and relying on caffeine for an extra boost.
As for the strangest thing he’s seen at a poker table? McEvoy recalls a man ripping off his pants and running around the room pantless, a bizarre moment in a game full of unpredictable characters.
From champion to changemaker, McEvoy’s legacy in poker is undeniable, one that balances competitive greatness with a lasting influence on the game’s culture.
| Player | Chips | Progress |
|---|---|---|
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166,000
25,000
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25,000 |
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