Stunning Turn of Events: WSOP Main Event Final to Proceed Without Shot Clocks!

Just days before the start of the final table of the world's most prestigious tournament, the World Series of Poker (WSOP) organizers have made a radical decision. They are eliminating the use of shot clocks, which were introduced mid-series. The new world champion will be determined in a 'traditional' setting without the relentless seconds ticking away on a display.

Why Shot Clocks Were Introduced to the Main Event

The implementation of shot clocks was a brand new addition in the 57-year history of the WSOP Main Event. Organizers decided on this move following a controversial moment on Day 6, when player Loren Klein tanked an unbelievable 15 minutes on a single hand. Klein was trying to 'sit out' other players at different tables, hoping to secure a pay jump from $105,000 to $125,000.

15 Minute Tank in Main Event

Loren Klein was looking to survive another pay jump on Day 6 of the 2026 WSOP Main Event as he went into one of the longest tanks of the summer. pic.twitter.com/RxbON81Pc3
— WSOP - World Series of Poker (@WSOP) July 12, 2026

Although this move sparked criticism due to the mid-tournament rule change, players had to adapt to the new system during Days 7 and 8. It was assumed the same pace would be maintained at the final table, but the opposite is true.

Return to a Natural Setting

In an official statement on social media platform X, organizers announced that after discussions with players and staff, they decided not to use the shot clock for the final. Their goal is to create a 'natural gaming environment' that provides players the time they need for the biggest decisions of their careers.

Organizers also highlighted the measures in place to prevent excessively long decisions:

Players can request a timer if they feel an opponent is taking too long to decide.
Staff reserve the right to intervene in exceptional cases.
If deliberate stalling occurs, WSOP reserves the right to reinstate the shot clock at any time.

Main Event Final Table Rules Update

After discussions with players and tournament staff, we’ve made the collective decision not to use a shot clock at next week’s WSOP Main Event Final Table.

As outlined in the Official Tournament Rules, players may call the clock if they… pic.twitter.com/TcFhOXNgm4
— WSOP - World Series of Poker (@WSOP) July 30, 2026

The response to this decision was immediate. Many players welcomed it, arguing that stalling at the final table makes no logical sense since there's no longer a pay jump to 'sit out.'

On the other hand, several players like Shaun Deeb expressed disagreement. Many argued that changing rules so close to the end of the tournament is unfair.

Some speculated that the removal of the shot clock might be linked to the Main Event's return to ESPN. While the shot clock speeds up the game, traditional long and suspenseful decisions for millions of dollars are what attract a mass audience to televised poker and create the necessary drama.

Nine finalists, led by massive chipleader Lucas Jumalon, will take their seats on August 3rd. At stake is a breathtaking $10,000,000 and the title, decided at a pace fitting for the world’s most famous tournament.

Sources: WSOP, X