Doyle Brunson, 10-time World Series of Poker champion, dies at age 89 - ESPN

Ten-time World Series of Poker bracelet winner Doyle Brunson has died at the age of 89, his family said Sunday.

«It is with a heavy heart we announce the passing of our father, Doyle Brunson,» Brunson's family said a statement, which was posted on Twitter by Brian Balsbaugh, Brunson's agent. «He was a beloved Christian man, husband, father and grandfather. We'll have more to say over the coming days as we honor his legacy. Please keep Doyle and our family in your prayers. May he rest in peace.»

The cause of death was not announced.

Brunson, known as «Texas Dolly» and the «Godfather of Poker,» was a member of the Poker Hall of Fame, inducted in 1988 when he was age 54. He had more than $6 million in live tournament earnings. His endless accolades included the 10 WSOP bracelets (tied for second all time with Phil Ivey and Johnny Chan; Phil Hellmuth is tops with 16), 26 WSOP final tables and a victory on the World Poker Tour.

Brunson won the World Series of Poker main event in back-to-back years (1976 and 1977), and he made the final table of that event an additional three times. The starting hand 10-2 is known as the Doyle Brunson, as he won the WSOP main event with that hand both years.

Rest in Peace to the Biggest Legend of Them All. Thank you for being the consummate player and gentleman. No one will ever fill your seat. pic.twitter.com/riE35PCrQh

He was rarely seen without his cowboy hat and a big smile, a look that made him stand out even more during the poker boom of the early 2000s. As he aged, his WSOP main event elimination each year became a memorable moment, as it was announced to all the players in the tournament. They stood from their chairs to offer a standing ovation to the legend as he exited the room. His