William Edler

William “Bill” Edler, born on February 11, 1964, is a former professional poker player who has earned over $3.4 million in live tournament winnings. He achieved a significant milestone by winning his first WSOP bracelet in June 2007, taking home $904,672, and he also claimed a WSOP Circuit (WSOPC) ring in January 2006. In 2007, Bluff Magazine honored Edler as Player of the Year. William also had sponsorship from Full Tilt Poker.

After stepping back from poker in 2011, Edler returned in June 2024

William Edler: Early Life

William Edler’s poker journey began in college, where he played to help fund his education at the University of California, Berkeley, renowned for its strong law program. However, as he delved into his studies, he realized that a career in law was not for him. Instead of prioritizing his grades, he embraced the learning experience. After graduating, he chose to pursue poker full-time, shifting his focus away from law and into the world of competitive gaming.

Initially, Edler was hired as a prop player at the Casino San Pablo in San Francisco’s East Bay. This position allowed him to work on his game while gaining valuable experience in the industry. Over time, he became the poker room manager.

Through his role, Edler formed a friendship with Erik Lindgren, whom he hired as a prop player when Lindgren was 21. This connection opened up further relationships, he also became good friends with Gavin Smith and Chris Bell. Those who know Edler, including his friends and colleagues on the poker circuit, often describe him as one of the nicest people in the game.

William Edler: Live Tournament Participation

Edler recorded his first live cash in November 1998 when he placed 8th in the $200 No Limit Hold’em event at the World Poker Finals in Mashantucket, earning $1,477.

In February 2007, Edler experienced significant success. On February 9, he won the $10,000 + $150 No Limit Hold’em event at the 1st Annual Heads-Up Championships in Compton, cashing $215,000.

Subsequently, on February 24, he finished 7th in the $9,900 + $100 No Limit Hold’em Poker Classic in Los Angeles, earning $189,840.

In June 2007, he achieved remarkable results when he won the $5,000 No Limit Hold’em – Six Handed event at the 38th World Series of Poker in Las Vegas, securing $904,672.

In addition, he placed 23rd in the $10,000 World Championship No Limit Hold’em event, cashing $333,490.

September 2007 saw Edler win the $9,700 + $300 No Limit Hold’em – Championship Event at the Gulf Coast Poker Championship in Biloxi, earning $747,615.

After several years, Edler returned in June 2024, where he entered the $1,000 No Limit Hold’em – Super Seniors event at the 55th World Series of Poker in Las Vegas. He finished 86th and cashed $4,060.