subject: 1997 World Series of Poker [print this page] As all of the cards were exposed it was clear that Ungar had the advantage. He would become the 1997 World Series of Poker champion after his absence from the game that lasted more than a decade. This remarkable finish and story made 1997 one of the best years of all time for the World Series of Poker. Stu Ungar will forever be remembered for his heroic play after overcoming the chains of addiction that bound him for so long.