This question was prompted by the WSOP’s decision to force Justin Bonomo to remove a Palestinian-made keffiyeh he was wearing with two tables left in the $25,000 WSOP Paradise Super Main Event.
Following WSOP released this statement: “The request for removal of Mr. Bonomo’s Keffiyeh once he reached the tv production table was simply a matter of broadcast clearance. Our future distribution platforms for Super Main Event do not allow garments deemed controversial or political in nature.”
Immediately following the decision, I spent some time talking with several veteran poker industry insiders, all of whom were shocked by the WSOP’s move. While the Bonomo/WSOP question is specific to this instance, in general terms, it makes me wonder what other accessories or pieces of clothing could be prohibited.
In the discussions I’ve had, rhetorical questions included:
- What about a MAGA hat?
- What about a Star of David on a chain?
- What about a flag of a country at war?
This is not the first time nor will it be the last that tournament directors are forced to make a decision about what someone can wear at a table. Where should the line be?
(Please note, we are intent on keeping all discussions in Ask the Org civil and free from attacks or fights about political issues. Please keep all discussions here relevant to the topic of what people should be allowed to wear at a poker table).
