Prashant Nataraj won the Salute to Warriors and $208,800

Prashant Nataraj won Salute to Warriors and $208,800

Prashant Nataraj took victory in Event #59: $500 Salute to Warriors at the 2026 WSOP in Las Vegas, earning $208,800 in prize money and his first gold bracelet. The tournament had a charitable focus: $180,000 of the prize pool was directed to veteran support funds.

Nataraj started the final day with a stack of 10 big blinds. As the tournament progressed, once the guaranteed payout exceeded his previous career-best of $40,000, he made a firm decision to fight solely for the title. In the final heads-up against Lawrence Essack, his Ace-high held up, sealing the win.

Right after the final hand, Nataraj received personal congratulations from Phil Hellmuth, who officially welcomed him into the club of gold bracelet holders.

The tournament was also marked by a deep run from a renowned poker veteran. 2006 WSOP Main Event champion Jamie Gold finished his run in 17th place.