After completing studies as an IT specialist, Sebastian Ruthenberg did not take the career path his schooling pointed to. Instead, he became a professional poker player. The young German pro earned his first World Series of Poker bracelet in the 2008 $10,000 World Championship seven-card stud eight-or-better event. It was the first of its kind to boast more than a $1 million prize pool. After beating a field of 261 players, including heads-up opponent Chris Ferguson, Ruthenberg took home nearly $329,000 for first place.
