Poker Pros we Love to hate

The Pro's we Love vs. the Pro's we Love to Hate


The Poker Pros We Love
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The Poker Pros We Love to Hate

Why is it that some poker players are appealing to us, who we embrace and root for, while we loathe other players, who get under our skin and we hope to see lose?

The first reason for this phenomenon is player attitude and sportsmanship, or lack thereof. When we see a player like Daniel Negreanu, who is liked by most poker players, win a hand, we are happy for him, and wish for him to be successful at his game. The same goes for Phil Gordon, who is always a professional pro at the tables. The best player, poker professional or not, usually has an outstanding quality which fans are drawn to. In the case of the poker professionals mentioned, it is the quality of sportsmanship and friendliness, while still appearing as a formidable opponent while playing at the poker tables. It is a natural talent that these guys either possess or not.

In the not category, the first poker professional that comes to mind is Phil Hellmuth and Mike Matusow. What pleasure to see them lose a big hand, and begin the ranting and whining that they happen to be famous for. The most entertaining televised poker tournament that I have watched was with both Hellmuth and Matusow at the same final table. Hellmuth declared "war" on Matusow. The behavior of these players leads to you wanting to see them lose, so they will begin to rant and rave, and really make fools of themselves.

It is understandable to get pissed off when an opponent sucks out in a big hand, but to carry on for the rest of the tournament like Hellmuth does, is laughable and unprofessional. There is a clear distinction between the first poker professionals mentioned, Negreanu and Gordon, and the aforementioned players. Self control is a major texas holdem poker strategy, and should be practiced by all players at the table. By keeping a check on your emotions and outbursts, you will be a more effective poker player and will be less readable by your opponents.

Most avid poker fans will agree that Daniel Negreanu is one of the most well liked poker pros, and has a large poker fan base. When you see him playing, and making unbelievable reads and calls, you realize what a sharp, extremely talented poker professional he really is.