Joe Hachem and PokerStars Part Ways

PokerStars and 2005 WSOP Main Event champ Joe Hachem announced in a release today they have mutually agreed to part ways.
The Australian poker icon’s contract with Stars recently expired and the two parties have elected not to renew their agreement.
“It’s been a great run with PokerStars and I’m proud of my marked cards contactlenses association with the people and the company,” Hachem said.
“But it’s time for me to pursue other career opportunities and it will be fun to have some down time to spend with my family.
“I look forward to the future with much excitement and anticipation and will always have fond memories of my time at PokerStars.”
Hachem signed with PokerStars immediately after his 2005 win and has been the face of PokerStars in Australia ever since
Moneymaker Last of the Big Three Champs
Along with fellow Main Event champs Chris Moneymaker and Greg Raymer, Hachem also featured prominently on the PokerStars website for several years and was a central figure in its worldwide marketing campaigns.
Raymer also chose not renew his agreement with Stars when his contract expired last year, leaving only Moneymaker as a current member of Team Poker Stars Pro.
“Joe has been a terrific endorser for PokerStars over the years, and while we are sad to see him leave the Team we are looking forward to continuing to watch him play,” said Eric Hollreiser, Head of Corporate Communications for PokerStars.
“We thank him for all he’s done for our brand and for marked cards poker and we wish him all the best at the poker table and in life.”
Along with his Main Event championship, Hachem also has a win at the WPT Five Diamond World Poker Classic and has over $11 million in career tournament earnings.