Daniel Negreanu Calls for Face Coverings, Sunglasses Ban at the Poker Table
Daniel Negreanu gave his opinion on how to improve the game of poker, which includes banning face masks and sunglasses among other changes.
The Poker Hall of Famer just completed a World Series of Poker Paradise (WSOPP) series that sums up his 2024 tournament performance — up and down. He reached two final tables and cashed in the $50 million guaranteed WSOPP Super Main Event (170th place), but lost money due to striking out in the $500,000 buy-in Triton Million Invitational.
Now that the the major poker series is out of the way, the opinionated poker legend has opined on some rules changes he'd like to see, and not everyone agrees (or disagrees).
Eliminate Mask-Wearing at the Poker Table?
Negreanu, who recently started a non-poker podcast with his wife, tweeted out a series of ideas he believes will improve the game, the first of which is the elimination of face coverings at the poker table.
Face masks have become more prevalent at the poker table since COVID-19. Isaac Haxton is the most recognized mask wearer given he's one of the best poker players in the world. Ike's decision to mask up has led to criticism from the anti-mask crowd, including Phil Hellmuth, who called for his peer to remove the face covering earlier this year.
The request was not accepted by Haxton as he has stuck to his guns. But Negreanu now says he'd vote for a face covering ban at the poker table, and the same for sunglasses.
Most of those who commented on Negreanu's tweet seem to agree with his first two suggestions, but not so much his vote to have card protectors banned and a player automatically being forced all in when wagering 90% or more of their stack.
Brian Rast argued there are "very good reasons to leave something back" that has nothing to do with angle shooting.
"I think you create an artificial line at 90% that people will try to use, and now things are more complicated. It’s much easier for dealers and players to learn whether someone is allin and not make the change you advocate," the six-time World Series of Poker (WSOP) bracelet winner argues.
Negreanu responded: "Not sure of the perfect rule but it’s just a freeroll to try and trick someone into flipping their hand." He mentioned that he's even legally used the ability to leave one chip behind to his advantage but wants the rule changed. Adam Hendrix mostly agreed with the Poker Hall of Famer, but suggests the rule only be applied to preflop action.
Dylan Weisman doesn't agree with banning sunglasses. He says the rule is "brutal for venues that have bright lights."
The outspoken Negreanu has made some suggestions as to how he'd improve the game of poker. It's now up to tournament operators, poker room managers, and the poker community to decide if they'll listen.
Hellmuth Calls for Haxton to Take Off the Face Mask
