The World Series of Poker is drawing so many gold-bracelet hopefuls and poker-obsessed fans that players are having trouble getting to the bathroom because of the crowds.

"It's been pretty hectic around here," says Greg Raymer, who won a gold bracelet and $5 million in the main event last year. "Even going to the bathroom can be a challenge. I have fans waiting to take a picture with me or ask for an autograph."

Phil Gordon, a professional player, says he signs 50 autographs on his way to the restroom.

The Las Vegas tournament's growth and popularity spurred a move this year from its longtime home at Binion's Horseshoe to the Rio All-Suites Hotel and Casino — except for the main event. Participation and prize money are expected to double from last year.

"Binion's is not even half the size of the Rio," Raymer says. "We had 2,300 in the first event. There would have been no way we could have done that downtown."

The first event, a no-limit Texas Hold-'em game with a $1,500 buy-in June 5, had a purse worth more than $3 million. It was the first of 46 events in the six-week series.

Gordon was shocked because he says it was not long ago when the purse for the main event, with a buy-in of $10,000, was the same.

"They did something very rare (in the first event)," Gordon says. "They went 11-handed with 11 people at a table because there were so many people. Usually there are only 10."

The projected prize pool at this year's tournament is $100 million, making it one of the richest sporting events ever, says Howard Greenbaum, who oversees the tournament. About 3,000 people have signed up for the main event, which begins July 7, and Greenbaum bets the casino will sell all 6,600 spots.

There are also high stakes on the retail front. Greenbaum describes merchandise sales as "incredible."

"I think if we sold socks, people would be wearing them," he says.

Poker's popularity began to grow after ESPN televised the main event in 2003, when Chris Moneymaker won $2.5 million. Moneymaker is an accountant who won his entry fee in a satellite tournament. ESPN will air most events beginning in August.

Raymer thinks people are attracted to poker because mentally it is like a sport.

"Someone who has a lot of heart and courage can be good at poker," Raymer said. "If someone has perseverance when they are destined to lose, they can win in the end."