What makes a great poker player?
Having consulted a range of experts, poker pros and industry know-alls, we determined that the key criteria are, in no particular order:
MTT form - The biggest titles, cashes and fame all come with winning the biggest tournaments in the World (WSOP, WSOPE, WPT, EPT etc). A top player must be able to win MTTs.
Grind - The ability to grind out profit despite the inevitable fluctuations of long term poker play and still love the game at the end of it.
Adaptability - Top players should be able to move between poker disciplines (FL, NL, Omaha, Sit & Gos and MTTs) and perform well in all.
Consistency - The ability to return a solid profit over an extended period of time.
Fearlessness - The ability to take on any player, confident in the fact that you can beat them.
Stakes - Top players should be able to cut it even at the top levels.
Benefits and offers
£50 CASINO BONUS
100% deposit bonus up to £50 for all new casino players. Just join and play to claim.
Poker calendar
$200,000 STAX#RATINGS™
Check your rating
Weekly $125 GTD
Every Sunday at 19.05 BST
WSOPE 2008 Qualifier
25th May 2008
WSOP Qualifier
17th May 2008
Battle of the Forums
3rd July 2008
Pokerfecta
Weekly
Annette 15 $20 GTD
Every Friday at 19.30 BST
IMPER1UM $30k GTD
Every Tuesday at 19.30 BST
Milk The Kid $5k PLO
Every Monday and Wednesday night
$11k GTD
Tuesdays and Fridays
$16 GTD
Daily at 20:15 GMT
Other items
I think you need to add self discipline to the list Dave. The ability to stop yourself from going on tilt and if needed take a break from the game rather than chase any losses you've incurred.
I guess it links all of the traits above because you can have all the attributes you mentioned but without real self discipline even the best players will fall apart at some point. Just look at Mike Matusow and compare him to Phil Ivey!
Pud's Poker | 07 May 2008