It might have seemed like Jason Mercier had already wrapped up the 2016 World Series of Poker Player of the Year by mid-June. In three consecutive preliminary events, Mercier won two bracelets and finished runner-up in the other, catapulting himself way ahead of the chase pack before the series had even reached its midway point.
But it wasn't until Paul Volpe saw his 2016 World Series of Poker Main Event run stopped in 29th place late last night that Mercier could be assured of having clinched 2016 WSOP POY honors.