The poker grinder claims he was coerced during his stay at the Park Royal Centre for Mental Health
Tom Dwan, one of poker’s most recognized names, has come forward with serious claims following a recent stay in a mental health facility in the UK. The high-stakes player, often known for his quiet public presence, is now back in the US and has indicated he plans to take legal action over his experience abroad.
The situation began in late April when Dwan posted a series of unusual tweets, tagging political figures from both the US and the UK. Shortly afterward, he was admitted to the Park Royal Centre for Mental Health in Middlesex. According to Dwan, what followed was a disturbing series of events. In a tweet following his return, he alleged that he was medicated against his will and said his time there felt like being “held as a prisoner.”
Dwan also claimed that facility staff pressured him to post a tweet on April 30 that suggested he was doing better, something he now says wasn’t entirely true. He described that post as being written under duress. Now back in the US since May 17, Dwan said he’s planning to file multiple lawsuits and raise public awareness through social media and other platforms.
This tweet was coerced out of me (they restrain ppl n inject them with drugs).
Was supposed to have phone back after 5-10min.
Ended up not having access for 2weeks+
Obv judged some details wrong n got paranoid on some stuff, I need to go to a beach asap 🏖️ 🏝️ https://t.co/rZE14cVO2y
— Tom Dwan (@TomDwan) May 17, 2025
The Park Royal Centre has been criticized before. Before Dwan’s release, concerns were already being raised online. Poker player James Marinkovic posted Google reviews of the facility that included accounts of poor conditions and staff behavior. One reviewer described a lack of compassion from employees, while another claimed to hear unsettling noises from the building regularly.
Dwan said he would step away from Twitter for a while, but hinted at sharing more about the incident during an upcoming stream with Abril Zucchi. For now, he seems focused on seeking accountability through both legal and public channels.
