It was during one of his frequent strategy discussions that veteran poker pro Dara O’Kearney dropped a statement that caught the attention of many in the community: “I think 2025 will be the most American WSOP in years.” For longtime fans and players of the World Series of Poker, this prediction sparked both curiosity and concern.
O’Kearney’s words weren’t just a throwaway comment—they reflected deep shifts happening within the poker ecosystem. He has seen the highs and lows of international participation at the WSOP over the years. But in 2025, he’s betting that poker’s biggest stage in Las Vegas will have far fewer international accents at the table. So what exactly is behind this Americanization of WSOP 2025?
Travel Costs, Local Series, and Lingering Visa Woes
O’Kearney pointed to several real-world obstacles that are keeping international players away from the bright lights of Vegas. First and foremost: the rising costs of international travel. Airfare, accommodations, and the general inflationary pressure on bankrolls have made it difficult for many players from Europe, South America, and Asia to justify the trip.
Then there’s the growing popularity of regional poker tours. Events like the EPT (European Poker Tour), APT (Asian Poker Tour), and Brazil’s BSOP have created lucrative opportunities right at home for many players. Why travel 10,000 miles to compete with elite U.S. grinders when you can chase six-figure scores in your backyard?
Finally, there are bureaucratic issues—visa delays, travel restrictions, and the hangover of post-pandemic uncertainties. All of these factors combined mean fewer global stars are likely to be seated at this year’s WSOP, and a lot more Americans will be front and center.
What a Heavily American WSOP Might Look Like
According to O’Kearney, this shift will create noticeable changes in the playing field. The average table might be filled with American recreational players, streaming personalities, and seasoned pros from across the States. That’s not to say the competition will be any less fierce—but the style of play will change.
American poker culture is famously more aggressive and intuitive compared to the solver-heavy, GTO-based styles often seen in Europe. This might result in more unpredictable hands, creative bluffs, and big pots. For fans watching from the rail or online, that’s great news—WSOP 2025 could be packed with entertaining action and bold moves.
Is This Bad News for International Players?
Not necessarily. In fact, O’Kearney believes it could work to their advantage. For the international players who do make the trip to Las Vegas this summer, the tables might be a little softer. Fewer top-tier European and Asian pros means there’s room to exploit field tendencies and take down bigger prizes—if they play it right.
He also emphasizes the need for flexibility. Players must be ready to adjust their approach. GTO is great, but knowing when to deviate and exploit can make all the difference—especially in a field dominated by American players who love to mix it up.
A Throwback to the Old WSOP?
There’s also a nostalgic angle to this shift. O’Kearney remarked that WSOP 2025 might resemble the series from a decade ago—before solvers and software became standard tools of the trade. Think: characters at the table, wild stories, and the kind of poker that made people fall in love with the game in the first place.
The series could see a resurgence of “feel-based” poker, where reads, timing, and heart play as big a role as any technical edge. If that holds true, then WSOP 2025 could be a breath of fresh air—and a chance to reconnect with the roots of the game.
What This Means for Poker’s Global Growth
On a broader scale, this American shift might be temporary—or it could mark a transition period. Poker is still booming across the world, but logistical challenges are driving a wedge between regions. Tournament operators, sponsors, and media outlets may need to rethink how they support international participation moving forward.
As O’Kearney suggests, it’s not about “good or bad.” It’s about being aware of the trends and preparing accordingly. Whether you’re a player, fan, or part of the poker industry, this year’s WSOP is shaping up to be an important one.
Final Thoughts
Dara O’Kearney has always been one of poker’s most thoughtful voices—not just analyzing hands, but observing the shifting dynamics of the game as a whole. His prediction that WSOP 2025 will be the most American in years might just be spot-on. But rather than lamenting the change, perhaps it’s time to embrace it.
Expect colorful personalities, dramatic plays, and a touch of old-school WSOP flair. Whether you’re an American player hoping to cash your first bracelet or an international grinder looking for value in a new landscape, this summer in Las Vegas promises to be unforgettable.
At BetterPokerNews (BPN), we keep you one step ahead of every major trend in the poker world. From exclusive insights and tournament reports to industry-shaping predictions, BPN delivers expert-driven coverage that’s built for true poker fans. Stay with us as we track the action at WSOP 2025—and beyond.