June 18, 2024 Jon Sofen Senior Editor U.S.

Koray Aldemir is off to a strong start at the 2024 World Series 8️⃣ of Poker, a rare occurrence for reigning world champions.

Seven months ago, the German poker pro who resides in Austria won 8️⃣ the WSOP Main Event forR$8 million, life-changing money even for a player who was already an accomplished grinder.

At the 2024 8️⃣ WSOP, he's already racked up six cashes, reached two final tables, and entered Friday ranked sixth in the Player of 8️⃣ the Year standings.

On the surface, what Aldemir's accomplished this summer might not seem so incredible or worth mentioning. But when 8️⃣ you consider the past history of Main Event champs and how they performed at the WSOP the following year, you'll 8️⃣ realize how rare his performance has been.