Should poker be in the olympics?

subaru16162 said:

So I saw a thread mostly poised to this question. But want people direct opinions on wether they think poker should be in the olympics and if you consider it a sport.

Too me it’s a game and not a sport and certainly shouldn’t be in the Olympics. Mostly because I feel there’s too much luck variance in poker. Olympics is something about being the best. But you don’t have to be the best at all to win a poker tournament.

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1. Skill-Based Game: Poker is often considered a game of skill rather than pure chance. It requires strategic thinking, psychological analysis, risk assessment, and decision-making abilities. Including a game that emphasizes skill in the Olympics can showcase a different aspect of competition.
2. Global Appeal: Poker is a widely recognized and popular game played by millions of people worldwide. Its inclusion in the Olympics could attract a diverse and enthusiastic audience, potentially expanding the appeal of the Games and reaching a new demographic.
3. Sporting Elements: Poker tournaments can be physically and mentally demanding, with players enduring long hours of intense concentration and endurance. The mental fortitude, discipline, and resilience required in poker align with the qualities celebrated in traditional Olympic sports.

1. Lack of Physicality: Unlike traditional Olympic sports, poker does not involve physical exertion or athleticism. Critics argue that the Olympics should focus on showcasing physical prowess and athletic achievements, rather than mental games.
2. Gambling Association: Poker is closely associated with gambling, which raises concerns regarding the ethics and integrity of the Olympic Games. Gambling-related issues, such as addiction and cheating, could overshadow the positive aspects of the event and the reputation of the Olympics as a whole.
3. Difficulty in Standardization: Poker comes in various formats, such as Texas Hold'em, Omaha, and Stud. Determining a standardized format for Olympic poker and establishing fair rules and regulations could be challenging due to the different variations and regional preferences.
4. Existing Poker Championships: There are already numerous prestigious poker tournaments, such as the World Series of Poker (WSOP) and the European Poker Tour (EPT), which have their own established platforms and recognition. Some argue that the Olympics might not be necessary as poker already has its own global stage.