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Phil Hellmuth has held the same belief since 1993: that he will one day claim 24 World Series of Poker bracelets. More than 30 years and 17 bracelets later, that conviction remains firm, even as some in the poker community question whether he can still compete at the top level of no-limit hold’em.
The all-time bracelet leader came close to number 18 at the 2026 WSOP, finishing runner-up in Event #99: $5,000 8-Handed No-Limit Hold’em on July 15. Despite earning $464,286, Hellmuth described the loss as deeply painful, telling PokerNews there is a stark difference between winning and finishing second.
Hellmuth, who won his first WSOP Main Event in 1989 at age 24, acknowledged that critics have doubted his ability to keep pace with a generation of solver-trained players. He referenced comments from nine-time bracelet winner Shaun Deeb, who suggested last year that Hellmuth might never win another bracelet, though Hellmuth believes Deeb’s remark wasn’t entirely serious.
Despite the runner-up finish to Darren Rabinowitz, Hellmuth pointed to his commanding chip lead during heads-up play as proof he can still perform at a high level in no-limit hold’em.
The final table took place in a lightly attended Horseshoe ballroom, though a small rail that included poker personality Martin Kabrhel and PokerNews Podcast co-host Mike Holtz watched closely. Hellmuth’s sons, Phillip III and Nick, were also present, with Nick showing up with a cap embroidered with “18” in anticipation of a potential milestone win.
Hellmuth expressed gratitude for his family’s continued support, noting that his parents attended many of his earlier bracelet victories and now his sons are carrying on that tradition.
