Russell Thomas biography
Russell Thomas is from Bryn Mawr, Pennsylvania, and studied actuarial science at Temple University. He worked as an actuary at Aetna in Hartford, Connecticut, before his poker breakthrough.
In 2012, aged 24, he reached the World Series of Poker Main Event final table, the October Nine, fourth in chips, and took a leave of absence from his job. He finished 4th for $2,851,537 when Jake Balsiger's ace-king beat his ace-nine. After the final table he signed with 888poker, which sent him to the European Poker Tour in Barcelona and the WSOP Europe in Cannes.
Thomas has more than $2.8 million in live tournament earnings.
Career summary
Former actuary Russell Thomas finished 4th in the 2012 WSOP Main Event for $2,851,537.
Russell Thomas poker winnings
| Year | Event | Place | Prize |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2012 | WSOP Main Event | 4th | $2,851,537 |
Verified live tournament earnings: $2,800,000+.
Russell Thomas playing style
Thomas brings an actuary's analytical approach to the game, focused on probabilities and disciplined decisions.
Business & sponsorships
Former actuary at Aetna; holds a degree in actuarial science.
Why Russell matters
Actuary Russell Thomas took a leave of absence from his job to play the 2012 October Nine and finished 4th for $2,851,537.
FAQ about Russell Thomas
What did Russell Thomas do before poker?
He was an actuary at Aetna.
How did Russell Thomas do in the 2012 Main Event?
He finished 4th for $2,851,537.
How much has Russell Thomas won playing poker?
Russell Thomas has won $2,800,000+ in live tournament earnings.
How many WSOP bracelets does Russell Thomas have?
Russell Thomas has not won a WSOP bracelet yet.
