One of the most famous poker players in the world, Lindgren came under fire over the last year for failing to pay gambling debts.
“It’s been a long, tough, ride and this makes me feel really good,” he said after winning.
Lindgren bested a tough final table that included Jonathan Little, Ryan D’Angelo and Lee Markholt to claim the title and $606,317.
He said it was the sweetest victory of his celebrated poker career.
“I took some things for granted and I’ve had to rebuild from the bottom,” said Lindgren. “It was a lot of hard work, grinding very small games.”
It’s been an extraordinary run for Lindgren who finished second in the WPT World Championship for $650,275 last month.
“It’s been crazy,” said Lindgren. “I was scrounging around in May just hoping to play a few tournaments. Every cash game felt like a tournament."
Lindgren: "I Was a Very Selfish Person"
The new father said he couldn’t have done it without his wife Erica Schoenberg.
“She’s my rock and the best mother and wife that I could ask for,” he said.
Meanwhile Erica was near tears as she saw Erick don his second WSOP bracelet.
“I’m so proud of him,” said Erica. “I can’t even begin to tell you what it’s been like. He’s my hero.”
Lindgren admitted that the last couple years have changed him forever.
“I’ve gone from being a very selfish person to being a much more unselfish, loving, family man. Very committed.”
Here are the complete payouts for the final table of Event 32 $5,000 6-Max at the 2013 WSOP:
1st: Erick Lindgren - $606,317 2nd: Leo Markholt - $374,960 3rd: Jonathan Little - $238,833 4th: Connor Drinen - $157,274 5th: Vasile Buboi - $106,830 6th: Ryan D’Angelo - $74,768Visit www.pokerlistings.com