The countdown to the 2025 WSOP starts here. 100 bracelets. All the poker players. And PokerOrg will be on the floor from start to finish.
Dara O’Kearney is a professional player, acclaimed GPI award-winning author of seven poker strategy books, co-host of the award-winning podcast The Chip Race, and an international ultrarunner.
What are you looking forward to most at the WSOP this year?
It’s my first year in the Super Seniors, so I’m looking forward to debuting in that event. Even more, I’m looking forward to rubbing my friend Andy Black’s nose in the fact I can take part and he can’t. He’s a few weeks younger than me, so he just misses out, which he’s gutted about.
What do you think the biggest story will be this summer?
I have a strong suspicion it will be the most American WSOP in a long time, with a lot fewer players travelling from abroad.
What prep will you do between now and the end of May?
I’m focusing a lot on physical fitness at the moment. I think the older you get, the more important it is to be in shape for a long series.
You’ve written a brilliant book called Poker Satellite Strategy with Barry Carter. What are your top three tips for players entering the satellites at the WSOP?
Learn what’s different about landmark satellites because they are all landmarks now. Secondly, pay attention to who at your table understands the strategy and who doesn’t. Finally, when you’re near the landmark, size your bets to get you there.
Who would be your top three picks in a WSOP Fantasy Draft?
Scott Seiver told us recently he’s going to do volume again so he’s the first one that springs to mind. Daniel Negreanu always gives it his all. My third pick is Ari Engel, another grinder who plays everything.
Who would you swap 5% with?
Almost none of my friends are attending this year so probably my one swap will be Kevin O’Donnell. To be fair, he’s an excellent swap, not because he’s any good at poker (he isn’t) but because he’s incredibly lucky. He is the personification of that old phrase better lucky than good.
What would be your main suggestion for a positive change at this year’s WSOP?
My one suggestion: shorter days. They’re far too long for recreationals.
Will Phil Hellmuth play in the main event? He’s declared he won’t because of the brutal long days, no rest days, and length of the event.
I think Phil will cave and play the Main Event.
Follow Dara on X and visit Simplify Poker to master advanced poker concepts. Don’t miss The Chip Race podcast.
The 2025 WSOP starts on May 26 and runs through until July 16, when the Main Event champion will be crowned.
