Does it feel like you just played the longest final table in WSOP history?

It’s the longest final table I’ve ever played. I can’t believe anyone has played one that’s longer.

You’ve had lots of near misses in WSOP bracelet events. Did you ever think it wasn’t going to be your day again?

He [Alekhin] had me down a couple of times, and I was worried. Early on I was confident I was going to win, but when I was short-stacked I was worried, thinking, ‘Not again... I’m not going to finish second again.’ I was short but I didn’t give up. I tried my best, and you have to give the last two players [Alekhin and November Niner Ivan Demidov] a lot of credit – they played great poker.

It’s been five years since your last bracelet win. It must feel good to be back in contention?

For two years Daniel [Negreanu] and I weren’t winning any tournaments and a lot of people assumed we were washed up – that all these young kids were better than us. There are a lot of great young players out there, but when we’re motivated, we can still play. I just hope I don’t have to wait another five years for my next bracelet.

How does this compare to the first bracelet?

I think of the four bracelets this is the most special. This is one of the top three events that I really want to win. It’s this one, the Main Event in Vegas and the WPT World Championship title.

You’ve invested in an MRI clinic – is it important to put your money to good use?

Absolutely, I’m a Buddhist and I believe in good karma. I believe every time I do good things, good things come back to me, and even if they don’t it still makes me feel good to help people. I’ve had a lot of help to get where I am today so maybe it’s my turn to help people back.