WSOP Main Event Payout Sparks Controversy Among Poker Players

The World Series of Poker Main Event payout structure has sparked controversy among players and fans. The record-breaking $12.1 million first prize has drawn criticism for its distribution.

Players and poker fans have reacted with some anger towards the World Series of Poker Main Event payout structure after the announcement of a record-breaking $12.1million first prize. News of the record numbers at this year’s ME – 10,043 entries producing a prizepool of $93,399,900 – was followed by the WSOP announcement of $12.1million for first place. That is $100k more than Jamie Gold scooped when he won the previous record-entry ME back in 2006.

Poker journalist Craig Tapscott recalled the top payouts from back in 2006, although only 10% of the field were paid that year compared to 15% this year. For many it isn’t the top payouts that are the biggest issue, bemoaning the 50% ROI min cash of $15,000. @golffan3It should be more like 25% if you want the game to be sustainable to play for a living and more players having more money overall. @YouGotHozed