Yang Wang and James Cheung Triumph at WSOP 2026

In a thrilling turn of events at the 2026 World Series of Poker (WSOP), Yang Wang and James Cheung secured their first WSOP bracelets in the $5,000 Pot-Limit Omaha (PLO) and $1,500 stud events respectively. Wang's victory came after a remarkable comeback from a short stack, earning him $595,388 and 1,824 Card Player Player of the Year points.

Wang's journey to the top was nothing short of spectacular. Starting the final day with one of the shortest stacks, he surged ahead to claim the WSOP gold bracelet. His key moments included doubling up against Evan Krentzman twice and securing a straight flush to clinch the victory. Wang's win was a significant achievement, especially considering he had finished second to Stephen Chidwick in a $50,000 buy-in PLO event at WSOP Paradise in 2024.

In the $1,500 stud event, James Cheung bested five-time bracelet winner Brian Yoon to take home his first gold bracelet and a $103,185 prize. Cheung's victory was particularly notable as he came back from a short stack to secure his win. The event drew 359 entrants, with Cheung emerging as the champion after a intense final day.