Should men stop “complimenting” women at the poker table? This has become the subject of a debate on social media recently after a female player took to Twitter to express her disgust at male players who objectify their female counterparts during poker games and tournaments in the guise of a compliment.
Compliment or Harassment?
In a short video specifically addressed to male players taking part in the World Series of Poker (WSOP), Christina Gollins said there are certain comments from men that make women uncomfortable at the table.
Remarks like “please don’t bust the girl on the table because I’m not done staring yet” or “if you leave, I’ll have nothing good to look at anymore” aren’t compliments, according to Gollins.
Poker Community Reacts
Gollins’ video gained mixed reactions from the poker community, with a fellow female player saying she wouldn’t feel offended if she’d receive the same comments. Tiffany Michelle said she would take it as a compliment if a man appreciates her looks while competing in a game.
Other female players sided with Gollins, saying they’ve had similar experiences too and during those instances, they’d choose not to react as it felt awkward and weird. For others though, it’s all about the delivery of the message and choice of words.
The attitude of men towards female players at the poker table will always invite conversation as it is one of the factors that discourage women from playing the male-dominated game.