WSOP Drops Shot Clocks for Main Event Final Table

The World Series of Poker (WSOP) main event never used shot clocks before this year. Shot clocks were implemented after Loren Klein's 15-minute tank on Day 6. The WSOP announced that the final table would be played without shot clocks, aiming to create a more natural playing environment for the final nine players. Shot clocks were implemented after Loren Klein's 15-minute tank on Day 6. The WSOP left open the possibility of reimplementing shot clocks if there is repeated or excessive stalling.

The decision to remove shot clocks for the final table is notable, as other major tournaments like the European Poker Tour and PokerGO Tour keep shot clocks in place even at the final table. The WSOP main event is back on ESPN after a five-year hiatus, and the lack of shot clocks could potentially enhance the drama for viewers.

Despite the lack of tanking incentives, tournaments that use shot clocks typically keep them in place at the final table. The European Poker Tour and PokerGO Tour both use shot clocks. Both tours keep the clocks in play with one table left.