Doug Polk Faces Backlash for Competing in Tournament at His Own Card Room

The poker pro and Lodge Card Club co-owner announces he will likely step back from playing tournaments at the venue after mixed reactions to his participation.

• Doug Polk, co-owner of The Lodge Card Club, reached the final table of the $1M Mayhem Main Event but finished in sixth place, earning $40,000.
• Polk's participation sparked debate over whether it is appropriate for a card room owner to compete in their own tournaments, with opinions divided among players and fans.
• Critics expressed concerns about potential conflicts of interest, especially in Texas' largely unregulated poker scene, while supporters highlighted Polk's integrity and reputation in the poker community.
• Polk conducted a poll on social media, where nearly 30% of respondents viewed his participation as problematic, prompting him to consider stepping away from future tournaments at The Lodge.
• The Mayhem Main Event concluded with Terry Morales and Austin Apicella splitting the top prize, each taking home $163,375 after an agreement during heads-up play.

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