Fans vote Ivey, Negreanu, 18 others into World Series of Poker freeroll tournament

Fans vote Ivey, 19 others into WSOP freeroll event

LAS VEGAS — World Series of Poker fans have picked Phil Ivey, Daniel Negreanu and 18 others to compete in the series’ Tournament of Champions for a top prize of $500,000.

The no-limit Texas Hold ‘em tournament that begins June 27 boasts a field of 20 players voted in by fans, including the biggest names in card playing. Ivey and Negreanu were the top vote-getters, with Ivey edging Negreanu by 28 votes among more than 16,000 cast for each player.

Doyle Brunson, Phil Hellmuth and Chris Ferguson were also voted into the tournament by fans.

Series officials say an additional seven players are in, including five former tournament winners and two sponsor exemptions.

The all-star event costs nothing for its players to enter and won’t be played for a gold bracelet.