Jonathan Tamayo is a professional poker player from Humble, Texas.
Born in 1986, Tamayo developed a love for poker in his early years, honing his skills in local card rooms and online before making a name for himself on the professional circuit. He gained attention with a deep run in the 2009 World Series of Poker (WSOP) Main Event and continued to build his reputation with multiple WSOP Circuit ring wins. Before fully committing to poker, Tamayo balanced his time between playing cards and refereeing high school football in Texas—a role he continues to hold even after achieving poker success.
Jonathan Tamayo’s Poker History
Tamayo has built an impressive career in the world of professional poker, highlighted by his 2024 WSOP Main Event victory. This win marked his first WSOP bracelet and earned him a career-best $10 million payday. His previous major accomplishments include multiple deep runs in WSOP events and four WSOP Circuit rings.
Tamayo has also been a consistent presence in live poker tournaments, amassing over $12.3 million in total career earnings.
Jonathan Tamayo's Top 5 Poker Results
| Date | Event | Place | Prize |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jul 2024 | $10,000 WSOP Main Event | 1st | $10,000,000 |
| Jul 2009 | $10,000 WSOP Main Event | 21st | $352,832 |
| May 2021 | $1,100 NLHE | 1st | $237,935 |
| Feb 2013 | $1,675 WSOPC Palm Beach | 1st | $206,020 |
| Apr 2024 | $3,300 NLHE | 3rd | $180,000 |
Wealth – What is Jonathan Tamayo’s Net Worth?
Jonathan Tamayo’s estimated net worth is a few million, primarily built from his poker winnings. His largest single payday came from his 2024 WSOP Main Event victory, but he has consistently earned money through other tournament cashes and live poker play. While some players spend extravagantly after a big win, Tamayo has taken a more measured approach. His initial splurges included a 10-pound box of lemon-flavored Jelly Bellies and a $4,000 upgrade to his golf clubs. Tamayo continues to live modestly, maintaining his 2019 Honda and staying active in the poker world while enjoying a grounded lifestyle.
WSOP “Solver-Gate” Controversy
During the 2024 WSOP Main Event final table, Tamayo’s rail was observed using real-time solvers to analyze hands, leading to accusations of gaining an unfair advantage. While Tamayo did not violate any existing rules at the time, the situation sparked debate over the ethics of external assistance in poker tournaments. As a result, the WSOP introduced Rule 63b, banning the use of electronic aids by players or spectators in the tournament area. Reflecting on the controversy, Tamayo stated:
“I’m fine with any changes, basically. It’s clear now what you can and can’t do. And it’s the same for everybody.”
Jonathan Tamayo FAQs
How much money has Jonathan Tamayo won in poker?
As of 2025, Jonathan Tamayo has won over $12.3 million in live poker tournaments, with his biggest score being $10 million from the WSOP Main Event.
What is Jonathan Tamayo’s biggest poker accomplishment?
Winning the 2024 WSOP Main Event for $10 million and securing his first WSOP bracelet.
What did Jonathan Tamayo buy after winning the WSOP?
His first purchases were a 10-pound box of Jelly Bellies and a $4,000 set of golf clubs. He has not made any extravagant purchases like luxury cars or homes.
What is Jonathan Tamayo doing now?
He continues to play poker, compete in tournaments, and referee high school football games in Texas.
51:57 
02:32 
03:24 
06:40 
