WSOP Threatens Disqualification Over Pro-Palestine Scarf at Paradise Super Main Event

WSOP Threatens Disqualification Over Pro-Palestine Scarf at Paradise Super Main Event

By Marcus Bennett

December 19, 2024 at 05:56 PM

Justin Bonomo faced potential disqualification from the WSOP Paradise Super Main Event for wearing a keffiyeh, a traditional Palestinian headdress, during the tournament at the Atlantis Resort in the Bahamas.

Professional poker player Justin Bonomo

Professional poker player Justin Bonomo

With 16 players remaining in the $25K event, officials requested Bonomo remove the scarf before the televised final table. The WSOP later issued a statement explaining their distribution platforms prohibit controversial or political garments.

The WSOP rulebook's Section 54d grants organizers discretion to ban any apparel deemed objectionable and refuse participation to those who don't comply.

The controversy extends beyond the dress code incident. Bonomo had previously criticized WSOP's decision to hold a charity tournament supporting IDF Widows and Orphans, calling the Israeli Defense Force a "genocidal terrorist organization."

Fellow poker pro Mike Matusow strongly opposed Bonomo's stance, suggesting those supporting terrorism should be banned from tournaments.

This isn't poker's first political clothing controversy. In 2014, Oliver Busquet wore a "Free Gaza" T-shirt during his victory at the EPT Super High Roller Event in Barcelona, prompting PokerStars to revise their dress code policy.

Bonomo will continue in the final table today, competing for the $6 million first prize, without his keffiyeh. He has publicly requested a Palestinian flag from his followers in the Bahamas, suggesting the controversy may not be over.

Related Articles

Previous Articles