When you think of the biggest names in poker, Justin Bonomo is right up there at the top. Known online as “ZeeJustin,” he’s built a career that’s not just about big wins—it’s about consistency, intelligence, and a serious love for the game.
From his early days playing Magic: The Gathering to winning millions at the poker table, Bonomo’s story is anything but ordinary. Let’s dive into how he went from card game prodigy to one of the most successful poker players of all time.
It All Started with Magic: The Gathering
Before he ever shuffled a poker deck, Justin Bonomo was deep into Magic: The Gathering—a strategic trading card game that requires focus, quick thinking, and an ability to read the competition. Sound familiar?
A lot of great poker players started out this way, and for Bonomo, it laid the perfect foundation. The shift from Magic to poker was smooth, and it didn’t take long for him to stand out as someone to watch.
A Teenager Making Poker History
Most 19-year-olds are worried about exams or part-time jobs. Justin Bonomo? He was making history.
In 2005, at the European Poker Tour event in Deauville, France, Bonomo became the youngest player ever to appear at a televised final table. He finished fourth—but more importantly, he showed the world that he had what it takes to compete with the best.
That moment wasn’t just a breakout—it was the beginning of something big.
Turning Heads with Life-Changing Winnings
Fast forward a few years, and Bonomo’s poker resume is nothing short of jaw-dropping. His live tournament winnings have soared past $61 million, putting him among the top-earning poker players in history.
But his biggest moment came in 2018. At the World Series of Poker, Bonomo took down the $1,000,000 Big One for One Drop event, pocketing a cool $10 million.
That win didn’t just make headlines—it vaulted him to the top of the All-Time Money List and confirmed what the poker world already knew: Bonomo is a force.
WSOP Glory and Triton Triumphs
When it comes to the World Series of Poker, Bonomo has made his mark in a big way. His WSOP stats include:
3 gold bracelets
1 WSOP ring
67 cash finishes
Over $16 million in WSOP earnings
And it’s not just WSOP events where he shines. Bonomo has also dominated on the Triton Poker circuit, winning big in both Jeju and London.
From high rollers to short deck formats, he’s proven he can win anywhere, against anyone.
Seven-Figure Scores, Over and Over Again
One of the things that makes Bonomo truly stand out is how often he wins big. We're talking seven-figure paydays in tournament after tournament. Here are a few highlights:
$1,000,000 No Limit Hold'em "The Big One for One Drop" (49th WSOP)
$300,000 No Limit Hold'em (Super High Roller Bowl, Las Vegas)
HK$2,000,000 + 100,000 No Limit Hold'em "Super High Roller Bowl" (Super High Roller Bowl China, Macau)
£250,000 No Limit Hold'em "Short Deck Ante Only" (Triton London)
Triton £100,000 No Limit Hold'em "Short Deck Main Event" (Triton London)
€98,500 + 1,500 No Limit Hold'em "Super High Roller 8 Max" (EPT Monte Carlo)
$100,000 + 2,000 No Limit Hold'em "Super High Roller Bowl Online" (Super High Roller Bowl Online)
$5,300 No Limit Hold'em "Championship Event" (Seminole Hard Rock 2013 Poker Open, Hollywood)
$99,700 + 300 #1 No Limit Hold'em "Super High Roller" (PokerStars Caribbean Adventure - PCA 2018, Paradise Island)
Find out more about his winnings from his profile at Hendon Mob.
A Permanent Fixture at the Top
Justin Bonomo isn’t just winning big—he’s staying on top.
He’s currently ranked #2 on the Hendon Mob All-Time Money List, one of the most respected poker rankings in the world. In the U.S., he also sits at #2 on the U.S. All-Time Money List—no small feat in a country filled with poker legends.
These aren’t just numbers. They’re proof of a career built on consistency, hard work, and world-class skill.
Wrapping It Up: Bonomo’s Legacy
From playing strategy games as a teen to dominating the biggest poker tournaments in the world, Justin Bonomo’s story is a masterclass in dedication and brilliance.
His success isn’t just about money or trophies—it’s about setting a new standard in the game. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just learning how to play Texas Hold’em, there’s a lot to learn from how Bonomo approaches the game.
Image Source: Pokernews.com
