While for years it seemed as though WSOP was bigger than the sport of Poker itself, it now seems that TV coverage is bigger the WSOP with a major change announced with regards to the final table at the 2008 WSOP.
Traditionally the final table was played at the end of the WSOP tournament but due to the apparent demands of TV – and no doubt the big bucks available to Harrah’s Entertainment – this year’s final prize pot table will not be played until the 9th November (to be televised 11th November). So why the change? Why has tradition apparently been pushed to one side?
The official line from Harrah’s Entertainment (who organise the event) is that by moving the final table to November, some 4 months after the competition starts, the tension and the anticipation will increase making for bigger viewing numbers and offering another chance to promote the sport to the world. Will it make any difference?
On paper the move will not make any real difference but that may not be so with the Poker players, many of whom will be “in the groove” if they manage to get through to the final table in July. A lot can change in 4 months but time will tell........
While for years it seemed as though WSOP was bigger than the sport of Poker itself, it now seems that TV coverage is bigger the WSOP with a major change announced with regards to the final table at the 2008 WSOP.