Winning does not make a pro

Poker writer George Epstein has said that it takes more than winning for a gamer to earn the title of poker pro.

The author of The Greatest Book of Poker for Winners stated that a player's conducts, aims and the qualities he displays are important, as well as their skill at the felt.

He set out a list of criteria that a gamer needs to meet for him to consider them a poker professional.

These included high levels of skill and knowledge, expert judgement and consistent success in the game.

Epstein added that players must also demonstrate high ethical standards and behaviour, exercise autonomy and contribute to the poker community or society in a meaningful way.

Under the writer's criteria, 11-time World Series of Poker winner Phil Hellmuth would be unlikely to be classed a poker pro because of his notorious outbursts at dealers and other players, particularly when he suffers a bad beat.

Epstein said: "[A poker pro] never berates another player or dealer. Even when suffering a bad beat, he controls his emotions."