With only two events remaining, the competition for World Poker Tour (WPT) Season 22 Player of the Year (POY) is as fierce as it’s ever been. Unlike last year, when Bin Weng secured the title early, the 2024 race remains wide open as the WPT World Championship festival unfolds at Wynn Las Vegas.

Yunkyu Song Leads the Pack

Yunkyu Song enters the WPT Prime Championship as the frontrunner with 2,275 POY points. Having already secured a WPT title at the Prime Playground Championship in October, Song’s consistent performance gives him an edge. However, his lead of 350 points over second-place contender Dylan Smith is anything but insurmountable.

Challengers Close Behind

Dylan Smith, Eric Afriat, and Landon Tice are among the top players still in contention. Smith, who bagged an average stack in Day 1a of the WPT Prime Championship, has 1,925 points. Afriat, a three-time WPT champion and a legend with seven top-three finishes, trails with 1,750 points. Tice, a rising star with a strong tournament resume, rounds out the top four at 1,700 points.

Even Dan Stavila, who sits at fifth place with 1,525 points, has an outside shot at catching up, but time is running out as the season nears its finale.

The Final Events That Could Change Everything

The WPT Prime Championship, boasting a $5 million guaranteed prize pool, and the $10,400 buy-in WPT World Championship are the last opportunities for players to earn crucial POY points. With over 5,800 players registered for the Prime Championship as of Day 1c, the competition is intense, and every deep run could significantly shift the standings.

The final leg of the POY race begins Dec. 14 with the WPT World Championship. For many contenders, this represents their last chance to dethrone Song and claim the prestigious title.

What’s at Stake?

Winning the WPT Player of the Year title is more than just bragging rights. It solidifies a player’s legacy in the poker world and comes with significant recognition. While Song remains the favourite, his competitors are ready to seize the opportunity should he stumble. This high-stakes drama ensures an exciting conclusion to Season 22.

The WPT Season 22 Player of the Year race promises to deliver thrilling moments as the final chapters unfold. Stay tuned for updates as poker’s elite compete for one of the game’s most coveted honours.