In a world where the poker map is constantly redrawn, 2025 will mark a major milestone. For the first time ever, the World Poker Tour (WPT)—a cornerstone of professional poker—will make its debut in the heart of Southeast Asia: Thailand.
The poker scene in Latin America and the United States has long been robust and thriving, with iconic stops from Las Vegas to São Paulo. But now, with Thailand entering the WPT calendar, the global poker narrative is expanding—offering new opportunities not just for Asian grinders, but for American and Latin players looking for exotic destinations and new fields to conquer.
A Strategic Expansion: WPT Plants Its Flag in Thailand
The announcement came via Thailand Business News, revealing that Thailand will officially host its inaugural World Poker Tour event in 2025. The event will be held at the prestigious ASEAN Poker Room in the holiday paradise of Phuket. This move signifies more than just a new location—it’s a strategic push by the WPT to solidify its presence in the Asian market.
With poker’s growing popularity in Asia, and Thailand’s rising tourism appeal, WPT Thailand is expected to attract players from all over the globe—including a significant turnout from the Americas. The allure of mixing world-class poker with white sand beaches, luxury resorts, and rich cultural experiences makes it a can’t-miss event on the 2025 calendar.
“Bringing WPT to Thailand is more than a tournament. It’s an invitation to the world to explore poker in a fresh and vibrant landscape,” said a representative from WPT during the announcement.
Why This Matters for American and Latin American Players
For players based in the United States and Latin America, this development is exciting for several reasons:
- New Opportunities for International Grind: Traditionally, WPT destinations like Las Vegas, Atlantic City, and Seminole Hard Rock are packed with top-tier competition. Thailand offers a fresh field, possibly softer in some spots, and could be a golden opportunity for ROI-focused pros.
- Affordable Luxury & Travel: Compared to U.S. or European destinations, Thailand offers exceptional value. Flights might be long, but once you’re there, world-class food, five-star accommodations, and experiences come at a fraction of the price.
- Exotic Bucket List Destination: Combining a poker trip with a vacation in paradise? That’s a win-win. From diving in Phi Phi Islands to temple hopping in Chiang Mai, Thailand adds adventure to the grind.
- Global Poker Passport Expansion: As poker players diversify their schedules beyond Vegas and Brazil, a WPT stop in Asia opens doors to broader global circuits.
Inside the Venue: ASEAN Poker Room, Phuket
The ASEAN Poker Room isn’t just another card room—it’s being positioned as Thailand’s most luxurious and regulation-compliant poker venue, tailored to meet international standards. Located in the tourist-friendly city of Phuket, the venue is already drawing buzz across regional forums and social media for its plush interiors and premium hospitality.
This venue is expected to host several side events and activities, appealing to players and fans who enjoy a more immersive poker experience.
WPT’s Strategic Growth in Asia
WPT’s expansion into Thailand isn’t a standalone move. It follows recent efforts to build a deeper footprint in Asia, including successful stops in Cambodia, Vietnam, and South Korea. Each event has helped legitimize live poker in regions where regulatory landscapes are still evolving.
Thailand’s entrance into this elite list is significant. While poker remains a legally gray area in some Asian countries, regulated environments like the ASEAN Poker Room represent a shift toward formalized, safe poker tourism.
And for international players, this means confidence—knowing they can travel and play legally and securely.
What Can Players Expect at WPT Thailand 2025?
While the full schedule and prize pool details have yet to be announced, here’s what we can expect based on WPT’s previous international stops:
- Main Event with ~$1 Million Guaranteed (TBC)
- High Roller Tournaments attracting Asian elites and global sharks
- WPT Player Experience Events such as beach parties, excursions, and player meetups
- Coverage in multiple languages, making it accessible for international audiences from the Americas to Europe
- Deep Stack structures and GTO-friendly formats appealing to grinders
We’ll be keeping a close eye on early qualifiers and package deals once they become available—especially for US and Latin American players who might want to secure their seats through online satellites.
Final Thoughts: A Global Game Gets More Global
The inclusion of Thailand in the WPT tour is a reminder that poker is no longer confined to the usual suspects. From Las Vegas to Lima, Barcelona to Bangkok, the felt has become global—and now, even more irresistible.
For Latin American and American players looking to mix the grind with adventure, WPT Thailand 2025 could be the perfect excuse to take your passport out again.
About BetterPokerNews
BetterPokerNews brings you international poker news with a pulse. From the vibrant poker rooms of Las Vegas to emerging scenes in Latin America and now Asia, we deliver expert coverage on live and online events, player profiles, strategy updates, and industry shifts. We’re not just a news site—we’re your global poker compass.
Source Pokerbol