Daniel Negreanu Calls for Face Coverings, Sunglasses Ban at the Poker Table 

Daniel Negreanu shared his views on enhancing the game of poker, suggesting various changes, including a ban on face masks and sunglasses. The Poker Hall of Famer recently finished the World Series of Poker Paradise (WSOPP) series, which reflects the ups and downs of his tournament performance in 2024. He made it to two final tables and earned money in the $50 million guaranteed WSOPP Super Main Event (finishing 170th), but ended up losing money after not cashing in the $500,000 buy-in Triton Million Invitational. With the major poker series concluded, the outspoken poker legend has shared his thoughts on some rule changes he would like, and opinions on this vary. Isaac Haxton. Negreanu, who has recently launched a non-poker podcast with his wife, shared a list of suggestions on Twitter that he thinks will enhance the game, starting with the removal of face coverings at the poker table. Face masks have become more common at poker tables since the onset of COVID-19. Isaac Haxton is the most well-known mask wearer because he is among the top poker players globally. Ike’s choice to wear a mask has drawn criticism from those opposed to masking, including Phil Hellmuth, who asked him to take off the mask earlier this year. Haxton did not agree to the request and has remained firm in his stance. Negreanu now expresses support for banning face coverings and sunglasses at the poker table. Many who responded to his tweet appear to agree with these initial suggestions, but they are less in favor of his proposal to prohibit card protectors and to automatically require a player to go all-in when betting 90% or more of their chips. Brian Rast pointed out that there are „very good reasons to hold back some chips“ unrelated to angle shooting, stating, „Setting a 90% threshold creates an artificial line that players will exploit, complicating the situation.“ „It’s far simpler for dealers and players to know when someone is all-in without implementing the adjustment you suggest,“ argues the six-time World Series of Poker (WSOP) bracelet winner. Negreanu replied, „I don’t know the ideal rule, but it’s just a free chance to deceive someone into revealing their hand.“ He stated that he has legally taken advantage of the ability to leave one chip behind, but he wants the rule to be amended.