Is poker a sport?

[tripplej]

I came across an article on yahoo sports in regards to the 2017 World Series of Poker’s Main Event, where Scott Blumstein won the $8.15 million prize.

So, the question is, is this really a sport or a hobby?

Any thoughts?

 

[Mark C Flick]

Nope, it's a card game. Just my opinion.

 

[tripplej]

I agree. For me it is more of a hobby but for a card game, it does get a lot of attention and a lot of money.. Television rights as well. amazing.

 

[Sonnie Parker]

ESPN is a sports channel and they show the world series of poker all the time. I would say it's a sport, although a gambling sport. It's how some guys make a living.

One thing for sure... two for certain... I won't bet anyone anything... not even a cola! I won't even buy a raffle ticket... just don't gamble at all.

But cards... yeah... sports. We play Hearts, Spades, Rummy, etc... we consider it a sport.

 

[tripplej]

There is skill involved when you are playing at the level these guys are playing and considering the sponsorship as well as the viewership, etc, it is a sport to one degree or another..

 

[Todd Anderson]

There's sportsmanship involved... but a sport is defined as "an activity involving physical exertion and skill in which an individual or team competes against another or others for entertainment."

As far as I can tell, pro poker players are slumped in their chairs with sunglasses on.

 

[leecreek]

Card game.