Stuart Errol Ungar, known as “The Kid,” was born in 1953 in Manhattan and showed a natural talent for card games from a young age. Skipping school to play cards and hustling busboys for tips, Ungar quickly became a skilled gin rummy player. After his father’s passing, he dropped out of school and began playing high-stakes games under the guidance of mafia figure Victor Romano.
Ungar’s eidetic memory and ability to read his opponents made him a formidable player. He was known for his arrogant table talk and total recall, which helped him win big money matches against top players. In 1980, he entered the WSOP Main Event for the first time and made a name for himself at the final table.
Doyle Brunson, another legendary poker player, also had a storied career in the game. After a knee injury ended his dreams of a basketball career, Brunson turned to poker and eventually became a two-time WSOP Main Event champion. He authored Super/System, a groundbreaking book that revolutionized poker strategy and helped popularize the game.
The rivalry between Ungar and Brunson came to a head in the 1980 WSOP Main Event. In a pivotal hand, Ungar outplayed Brunson with a gutsy call, securing his victory and the $375,000 prize. Brunson later reflected on the hand, acknowledging his mistakes and praising Ungar’s genius on the felt.
Ungar’s fearless approach to the game and his innate talent set him apart as a true poker prodigy. He went on to win two more WSOP Main Events, solidifying his place in poker history. Despite his tragic end, Ungar’s legacy lives on as one of the greatest card players of all time.