Society & Culture & Entertainment Gambling

Popularity Of The WSOP

What makes the WSOP so popular, and will it continue? There are a number of theories behind the popularity of the World Series of Poker and its future, but here are some of the basic things that make the WSOP so special to poker players.

Why is the WSOP so Popular: Reputation

There may be other big poker tournament series, but none have the credibility of the World Series of Poker, except perhaps the World Poker Tour. When you win a WSOP bracelet, it means something to the poker community. You are part of an elite fraternity of players who have beaten a highly competitive field and reached the pinnacle of the sport.

Why is the WSOP so Popular: Exposure

Before 2003, the WSOP wasn't all that popular. The main event attracted 839 players and the preliminary events fewer than that. However, that year marked expanded coverage of the main event, with hole card cameras that showed the players' holdings so everyone could follow the action. In addition, the World Poker Tour, which featured a $10,000 event every episode using similar technology, was introducing a whole new generation to poker. When the Cinderella story known as Chris Moneymaker was captured by ESPN's cameras, it inspired a whole new group of players to get involved with the WSOP to try to become the next poker superstar.

Why is the WSOP so Popular: Democracy

The WSOP is democratic. It doesn't matter who you are, if you can scrape together an entry fee, you have a shot at poker glory. You've got to play well and get lucky, but if you do, you can rake in the chips as a WSOP millionaire, just like all the celebrity players you see on T.V. Even if you can't put together a few thousand dollars to play in an event, you can satellite in either online or in person for just a few hundred dollars.

Why Is the WSOP so Popular? Money

The fact is, success at the WSOP can make you rich. Prize pools reach in the millions, and those who win can win what is called "life-changing money." That opportunity in itself is likely to keep people showing up for a long time.



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