Lin received a ban in October after coaching a player during a competition
Ren Lin has returned to World Series of Poker (WSOP) events just weeks after being suspended over collusion-related allegations tied to online play. The high-profile GGPoker ambassador was sidelined in October following an investigation into ghosting during a recent final table.
The suspension stemmed from claims that Lin provided real-time advice to another player, known online as “RealOA,” during the final table of the high-stakes event. That player received a lifetime ban, while Lin was removed from WSOP events and disqualified from a WSOP Circuit stop.
At the time, Lin said the situation was a misunderstanding. He explained that he believed his friend was asking about a hand that had already ended, not seeking live assistance. Another finalist disputed that explanation, claiming Lin suggested such help was common during online finals.
Seven weeks later, Lin is now competing at WSOP Paradise in the Bahamas. He has already cashed in the $2,500 Mystery Bounty event and has been spotted playing in other bracelet tournaments, including the Triton Main Event.
His appearance suggests the suspension has quietly ended. Lin has entered non-Triton WSOP events, which indicates he is no longer restricted under WSOP rules. His profile on the WSOP+ app still displays his GGPoker avatar, hinting that his ambassador role may also remain intact.
Because GGPoker owns the WSOP, bans on one platform typically carry over to the other. GGPoker does, however, allow appeals in certain cases, and some in the poker community believed Lin’s punishment would not be permanent.
Even so, the speed of his return has surprised many players. With less than two months passing between the suspension and his reappearance, the decision has reopened debate around enforcement, transparency, and consistency in handling high-profile cases.
