Shaun Deeb leads 2026 WSOP Player of the Year race amid scoring controversy

A poker legend fights for history as the WSOP's global expansion reshapes the game. Will the new rules crown the best—or just the busiest?

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2026 April 7 . 2:15 PM

1 min read

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Shaun Deeb leads 2026 WSOP Player of the Year race amid scoring controversy

The 2026 World Series of Poker Player of the Year race has begun, with Shaun Deeb named the favourite to win. This year's competition spans events from April to December across Las Vegas, Europe and The Bahamas. The top three finishers will each receive a $100,000 WSOP Paradise package as part of the new rewards structure. Deeb is chasing a record third Player of the Year title but has criticised the updated scoring system. The new formula heavily weights field size, which he argues favours high-volume players over those competing in smaller, high-buy-in events. Online WSOP events have also been excluded from this year's points race.

Deeb recently secured his second WSOP Circuit ring by winning Event #6, a $400 Six-Max tournament at the WSOP Turning Stone series. Despite his success, he remains sceptical of the current system, suggesting that multiple leaderboards—split by game type—would create a fairer competition. He also predicts that the Main Event winner, if they accumulate around 15 scores, will likely claim the overall title. The 2026 race marks the first time the Player of the Year competition has expanded globally, with events held across multiple continents. The prize for the top three includes a $100,000 package for WSOP Paradise, adding extra incentive for competitors.

Deeb's pursuit of a third title comes as the WSOP introduces a more global and volume-driven scoring system. His recent win at Turning Stone adds to his credentials, but the debate over fairness in the points race continues. The final standings will determine who earns the $100,000 package and the Player of the Year crown.