(AP) -- A 24-year-old Maryland poker professional has won the World Series of Poker main event, lasting roughly 12 hours in a marathon card session to push past his last opponents for the $8.53 million title.
 
Greg Merson emerged with the title early Wednesday after a session that proved a showcase for his skills amid the unpredictability of no-limit Texas Hold 'em.
 
Merson put his final opponent Jesse Sylvia all-in with a king high.

Sylvia thought hard before calling with a suited queen-jack.
 
Merson's hand held through the community cards to give him the title.

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