One of the magic of the WSOP is that it is capable of transforming lives. The 2026 edition has already chosen an initial character for this feat. American Andrew Shelton drew the highest value mystery envelope in Event #1 (US$ 550 Mini Mystery Millions) and turned a US$ 550 buy-in into a US$ 1 million prize.
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Before this feat, the recreational player had accumulated only US$ 25,311 in live poker circuit winnings. According to The Hendon Mob, his biggest career reward had been US$ 11,150, when he finished 85th in the US$ 5,000 NLH at the WPT Venetian DeepStack Championship in 2022. The million-dollar prize far exceeded everything he had previously achieved at the tables.
However, the US$ 1 million prize came right after his elimination from the tournament. “When I was drawn to go to the chest, I had few chips and said I would play on my button first. I got an AK and lost against an 88”, the player told PokerNews. Shelton finished in 102nd place out of 20,488 entries and received US$ 3,350 for his performance in the tournament.
At that moment, there were eight prize envelopes in the chest. The rewards ranged from US$ 25,000 to US$ 1 million. Shelton took the envelope and slowly opened it in front of the audience. When he saw the number 1 right at the beginning, an exuberant celebration began as he realized he had found the top prize. When asked about the destination of the money, he replied jokingly: “Drugs, alcohol, and women”.
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He is not expected to play at the WSOP again this year
However, those who think Andrew Shelton intends to invest the newly won fortune in new series tournaments are mistaken. In the same interview with PokerNews, he revealed that he has other plans. “Playing one WSOP tournament a year is already a lot. I am a recreational player”, said the American, who mainly works in property management. To watch the celebration video, click here.
Thus, the lucky player also explained that he only registered once in the tournament. Certainly, few investments in the world offer a similar return in such a short time. “I never thought I would win so much money”, he told PokerOrg. Then he added: “It’s unbelievable, I don’t know what to think or say”.
Finally, Event #1 (US$ 550 Mini Mystery Millions) continues with 13 players competing for the bracelet and the US$ 400,000 prize for the champion. Among the Brazilians who reached the payout zone, Bianka Abade finished in 436th place and received US$ 1,670. She had already won a side event at this WSOP. In addition, Marcio Peixoto finished 539th for US$ 1,490.
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