WCOOP 2015 Kicks Off with $45 Million Prize Pool and Russian Victories

The World Championship of Online Poker (WCOOP) 2015 began on September 6, 2015, with a $45 million prize pool. The tournament series features 70 events, including a super high roller tournament with a $51,000 buy-in and a high roller tournament with a $10,300 re-entry fee.

The initial schedule for WCOOP 2015 faced criticism for its abundance of knockout and progressive knockout formats, as well as increased buy-ins for limit games. However, adjustments were made based on community feedback, including the addition of more freezeout tournaments and reduced buy-ins for some events.

Russian players have made a strong start, winning three championship bracelets in the first week. Peter J. Nay became the first champion of WCOOP 2015, while Mikael Thury won the high roller heads-up tournament. Damir Gabdullin became the first Russian champion of WCOOP 2015, winning tournament #5.