The 2009 World Series of Poker (WSOP) Main Event rages on in Las Vegas, as players fight through a field of more than 6,400 players for their right to claim the $8.5 million first place prize. Joe Hachem won the event in 2005 and was took a few minutes to answer questions from Poker News Daily about the Main Event, the current legal climate of poker, and his worldwide fame.
Poker News Daily: Now that the World Series of Poker Main Event has once again started, what are your thoughts on the changes made to the structure of the tournament and how it helps balance the skill factor?
Hachem: The new structure has been incredible. I think the results speak for themselves. The game has changed so much that the variance is now incredibly high and the new structures have reduced that. This means the more skilled players have a better chance.
PND: The legal climate for online poker has gone through dramatic events in recent weeks here in the United States. As an Australian, do you feel compelled to follow what’s happening here as being important to the world poker community?
Hachem: Absolutely. The USA is still the Mecca for poker and if the climate becomes healthier here, then the rest of the world will follow.
PND: It’s been rumored that the Australian government might be planning a block of internet gambling and poker sites, but recent news is that dramatic action isn’t on the immediate horizon. What role do you think you might play in representing Australian poker player rights?
Hachem: I will do my best to represent and protect my sport in any way I can.
PND: How do you feel about your relationship with PokerStars and the poker room’s place in the industry?
Hachem: I have had a great relationship with PokerStars and, as you say, it continues to grow strong. I am proud of this affiliation, as PokerStars is not only the biggest, but it is also the best and the fairest site. No other poker site does more to promote and grow the sport of poker.
PND: Are you ever asked to offer advice up at PokerStars in terms of possible promotions, site upgrades, or tournament series?
Hachem: One of the great things about PokerStars is that they are constantly asking their stable of pros to help improve the site and guess what? They listen.
PND: You’ve won titles in both WSOP and World Poker Tour (WPT) events for millions of dollars. What drives you to still be competitive after already reaching the pinnacle of tournament poker success?
Hachem: I have made no secret that I want to be the #1 all-time money winner and this is propelled by my inherent drive to compete and succeed.
PND: This year, many expected the WSOP to have a down year, but the tournaments were instead well-populated. What were your observations of the fields you competed against this year in terms of their numbers and skill level?
Hachem: I have only really played the Main Event. All I can say is that poker keeps growing stronger and this was witnessed by the lockout on Day 1D, which was incredible. There were 2,700 players on that day and 600 got turned away. It made me think, “What recession?”
PND: After seeing the November Nine experiment last year, do you think it will have similar success this year? Should we assume that you are you happy you didn’t have to go through it during your WSOP Main Event final table?
Hachem: It is what it is and everyone knows it coming in, so it’s equal for all. I was uncertain at first, but now believe that it has a strong chance of taking poker to the next level in terms of audience exposure and popularity. As for me, I just go with the flow and adapt to whatever the situation is.
PND: You have fans worldwide that respect your accomplishments and skills. Do you have any words for people who follow your career so passionately?
Hachem: Every year at every event, I am overwhelmed and humbled by the fans. They are great and I will always make time for them. I am grateful for all of their support and it is great knowing that there are fans cheering me on from the four corners of the world. Thank you.
Also, I am about to release my new book, “Pass The Sugar,” which is basically an autobiography that takes readers on my journey from leaving Beirut in 1972 to the present day. I discuss the World Series and other poker accomplishments and near misses along the way. It’s a great read and fans will get a chance to get to know me better. Good luck and “Pass The Sugar.”