"It doesn't matter where we are from; we are all human beings. There should be one flag."
Those words, shared by former 888poker ambassador Bruno Kawauti during a conversation at 888Live Barcelona, capture something poker does better than almost any other game: it brings people together on equal terms.
In a world that often feels divided by borders, beliefs, and background, poker continues to offer a rare space where nationality fades and shared experience takes over. Few events illustrate this better than the World Series of Poker.
The Power of Global Sporting Events
History shows that the world’s greatest sporting events have an unmatched ability to unite people. From the Olympic Games to international football tournaments, shared moments of competition create a sense of belonging that transcends borders.
The World Series of Poker has quietly joined that list. Each year, players from across the globe make the journey to compete not just for prize money, but for a symbol that represents the very peak of the game.
The World Inside the World Series of Poker
Since official country records began in 2006, WSOP bracelets have been won by players representing more than 40 different nations. That diversity is one of the series’ defining traits.
While the United States still leads in overall bracelet counts, the WSOP has evolved into a truly international competition. Players routinely travel thousands of kilometres to take part, drawn by the scale, prestige, and life-changing potential of the festival.
Poker’s modern roots may lie in North America, but the game itself is global. Today’s fields feature professionals and recreational players from every corner of the world, all competing under the same rules, at the same tables.
International Growth and Closing the Gap
As poker education, online platforms, and international events have expanded, the competitive gap between regions has narrowed. Scandinavian countries, in particular, have consistently produced elite-level talent despite relatively small populations.
Former 888poker ambassador Sofia Lövgren has often highlighted the discipline and work ethic shared by many European players, traits that translate well to the marathon nature of WSOP events.
Over time, the WSOP has also expanded beyond Las Vegas. The introduction of WSOP Europe and WSOP Asia-Pacific helped expose new audiences to the brand and inspired more players to pursue the ultimate stage.
The Role of Access and Opportunity
One of the most important drivers of global participation has been accessibility. Online satellites and international qualifiers have opened doors for players who may never have considered attending the WSOP otherwise.
Stories of players turning small online buy-ins into deep WSOP runs are no longer rare. They are part of what fuels the series’ appeal and reinforces the idea that anyone, from anywhere, can earn a seat at the table.
What This Means for the Future of Poker
The WSOP may never feature players from every nation on earth, but its continued growth reflects something deeper than numbers. It represents a shared global culture built around competition, respect, and possibility.
Poker does not erase differences, but at its best, it sets them aside. At the table, skill matters more than origin, and decisions matter more than background.
One game. One table. A global community connected by a shared love of poker.
