Cryptocurrency payments are gaining a stronger position in live poker after Solana processed $23 million worth of buy-ins during this year’s World Series of Poker.
The payment option was introduced earlier in the year, allowing players to enter WSOP tournaments using cryptocurrency. At first, the initiative could have been viewed as another experiment with digital assets, but the figures released after the series show that a considerable number of players actually used the system.
According to Solana Chief Product Officer Vibhu Norby, transactions made through the network represented approximately 6% of all buy-ins recorded during the festival.
Crypto payments gain traction at major poker events
The $23 million figure gives a clearer indication of how quickly cryptocurrency can be adopted when it is offered alongside traditional payment methods.
Poker players have historically been relatively comfortable with digital currencies, particularly those who travel frequently to live tournaments and need flexible ways to move funds between locations.
That factor became especially relevant during this year’s series in Las Vegas. Some players experienced difficulties completing tournament or cash game transactions using conventional payment methods because of additional financial and anti money laundering checks.
Crypto payments offered another route for participants who already held digital assets and wanted to complete their buy-ins without relying entirely on cash transactions.
For the broader poker community, including players and readers following BCPoker, the numbers also show how digital assets are becoming increasingly connected with the live tournament environment.
Instant payouts could be the next major change
The next stage of the project could have an even greater effect on how players handle tournament funds.
The current system allows participants to use cryptocurrency when registering for events. The longer term goal is to make payouts available almost immediately after a player cashes in a tournament.
Instant crypto withdrawals are expected to be introduced during the World Series of Poker Paradise later this year. If the system works as intended, players could receive winnings faster without going through some of the delays associated with traditional banking procedures.
That could make cryptocurrency more attractive not only for tournament entries but also for managing winnings after an event.
2027 could bring wider crypto adoption in poker
Six percent of all buy-ins already represents a notable share for a payment option that was only recently introduced.
If instant payouts are added successfully and players respond positively, the proportion of crypto transactions could increase further in 2027. The combination of fast deposits, simpler international transfers and potentially faster cash outs gives digital currencies practical advantages for players who regularly compete at live events.
The $23 million processed through Solana therefore provides an early indication of how payment habits in live poker may be changing. Traditional methods will remain important, but cryptocurrency is becoming a more visible alternative for tournament players who already use digital assets.
