Has The World Series Of Poker Sold Out To TV?

05.9.2008 | 4:30 am | Poker

While we stroll headlong into what is sure to be one of the most exciting WSOP events in recent times it seems that the 2008 WSOP tournament has sold out to TV, given up on tradition to count the money. So what is going on?

The tournament will begin in a couple of weeks as usual but while we will know the final table in mid-July the organisers of the tournament, Harrah’s Entertainment, has confirmed that the final table will not take place until November with the event being broadcast on TV a couple of days later. The press is full of the same old lines about “increasing the tension”, “building up the excitement” and “taking another opportunity to promote the game of Poker” but are these really the reasons?

There is speculation in some areas of the sport that after reporting a loss for the first quarter, the new owners of Harrah’s Entertainment (who recently paid upwards of $17 billion for the firm) are looking to ramp up their return on their investment. With general casino numbers declining it appears that the 2008 WSOP was a prime target for a “sell out”. But is that really fair?

Whether you believe that the organisers have sold out to TV or whether this is just good management of a massive brand name is irrelevant. If you look at the situation for the players you will see those reaching the final table in peak condition, in the mood and often on a roll with a winner’s attitude. So much can happen in the 4 months between playing the event and arriving at the final table.

Will the players go to the final table cold? What will happen in their lives during the 4 month wait?

All in all the 4 month gap is probably not the best solution for the players, but then again the winner will not be complaining if the prize pot increases due to the change…..