Picking the absolute best poker players of all time can be tricky, as it’s not just about the winnings. We considered playing style, personality, and achievements to create our list. Keep in mind, this is just our opinion, and there are many other great players out there when we are talking about the best poker players ever.
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Without doing any further delay let’s take a look at the following best poker players ever:
Doyle Brunson
Doyle Brunson, often affectionately referred to as “Texas Dolly,” stands as a poker legend with a remarkable career spanning over 50 years. His enduring presence in the poker world is marked by numerous achievements and a profound impact on the game.
Brunson’s legacy includes an impressive collection of 10 World Series of Poker (WSOP) bracelets, a feat that places him among the most decorated players in the history of the sport. Notably, he clinched victory in two Main Events, the pinnacle of success at the WSOP, in both 1976 and 1977.
What sets Brunson apart is not just his list of accolades but also the qualities that have defined his gameplay. Renowned for his instinctive approach to online poker games for real money, he possesses a natural feel for the intricacies of the game. This innate understanding, combined with his vast experience accumulated over decades of play, has solidified his status as one of the most respected and recognized figures in the poker community.
- Legendary player with over 50 years of experience.
- Winner of 10 World Series of Poker bracelets, including two Main Events.
- Recognized for instinct, natural feel, and vast experience.
Johnny Moss
Johnny Moss, often hailed as the “Grandfather of Poker,” was a notable figure in the world of gambling and poker, leaving an indelible mark on the game’s history.
Moss began his journey in poker as a Texas road gambler, navigating the circuit and honing his skills in the various gambling dens that dotted the Texas landscape. His legacy is particularly highlighted by his remarkable achievements in poker tournaments, especially at the World Series of Poker (WSOP).
Moss secured an impressive trio of Main Event titles at the WSOP, showcasing his prowess in the pinnacle tournaments of the series. Furthermore, he amassed an extraordinary total of 9 WSOP bracelets, a testament to his consistent excellence and dominance in various poker events.
Beyond his tangible achievements, Johnny Moss is remembered as more than just a winner; he is celebrated as a keen competitor and a significant figure in the broader history of poker. His influence extended beyond the tables, shaping the ethos of the game and contributing to the development of poker as a sport.
As the “Grandfather of Poker,” Moss’s legacy lives on, not only in his impressive tournament victories but also in the spirit of competition and the rich history he helped forge within the world of professional poker.
- A Texas road gambler with 3 Main Event titles and 9 WSOP bracelets.
- Remembered as a keen competitor and significant figure in poker history.
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Phil Hellmuth
Phil Hellmuth, known by the moniker “The Poker Brat,” has established himself as one of the most recognizable and accomplished figures in the world of professional poker.
Renowned for his toughness at the poker table, Hellmuth possesses a remarkable acumen for the game. His strategic insights, combined with a competitive spirit, have made him a formidable force in high-stakes poker tournaments.
Hellmuth’s trophy case includes an impressive collection of 15 World Series of Poker (WSOP) bracelets, making him one of the all-time leaders in this prestigious category. Each bracelet symbolizes a victory in a specific event, highlighting his consistency and success across various poker formats.
In addition to his numerous bracelet wins, Hellmuth has accumulated an estimated $23 million in tournament earnings, attesting to his longevity and sustained excellence in the highly competitive world of professional poker.
Two standout moments in Hellmuth’s career include his victories in the WSOP Main Event, the pinnacle of tournament poker. He clinched the Main Event title first in 1989 and then again in 2012, cementing his status as a multi-time champion on poker’s grandest stage.
- Renowned for toughness and poker acumen.
- Boasts 15 World Series of Poker bracelets and around $23 Million in earnings.
- WSOP Main Event winner in 1989 and 2012.
Justin Bonomo
Justin Bonomo, widely recognized as “ZeeJustin,” has emerged as a dominant force in the world of professional poker, amassing impressive achievements and substantial winnings.
Bonomo’s track record boasts an extraordinary $44.6 million in tournament earnings, establishing him as one of the top earners in the poker realm. This substantial financial success is a testament to his consistently strong performance in high-stakes tournaments over the years.
One of the most remarkable aspects of Bonomo’s poker career is his prowess in major tournaments. Since 2016, he has claimed victory in an astounding 18 major tournaments, showcasing a level of skill and strategic acumen that places him among the elite players in the field.
A standout moment in Bonomo’s career is his triumph in the prestigious $1 Million Big One for One Drop tournament. Winning this high-stakes event not only added a substantial amount to his earnings but also solidified his reputation as a formidable competitor capable of excelling in the most prestigious and challenging poker tournaments.
- Dominant force with $44.6 Million in winnings.
- Won 18 major tournaments since 2016, including the $1 Million Big One for One Drop.
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Daniel Negreanu
Daniel Negreanu, affectionately known as “Kid Poker,” stands as one of the most accomplished and recognized figures in the world of professional poker.
Negreanu holds the distinction of being the record-holder for the biggest live tournament poker winner, an achievement that underlines his consistent success and dominance in the live tournament circuit. His ability to navigate through tough competition and emerge as a top earner sets him apart as a true force in the poker world.
Among his numerous accolades, Negreanu has been awarded the prestigious World Series of Poker (WSOP) Player of the Year title not once, but twice. This remarkable feat reflects his sustained excellence over extended periods, demonstrating his adaptability and skill across various poker formats and events.
Negreanu’s collection of accomplishments includes an impressive six WSOP bracelets, further solidifying his status as one of the all-time greats in tournament poker. Additionally, he has secured two World Poker Tour (WPT) titles, showcasing his proficiency in high-profile poker tournaments beyond the WSOP arena.
The financial success of Daniel Negreanu is also noteworthy, with earnings totaling around $33 million in live tournament winnings. This substantial sum is a testament to his enduring skill, strategic prowess, and consistent ability to perform at the highest level of competition.
- Record-holder for the biggest live tournament poker winner.
- Two-time WSOP Player of the Year with six bracelets, 2 WPT titles, and $33 Million in earnings.
Daniel Colman
Daniel Colman, recognized by his online moniker “mrGR33N13,” has carved a prominent and impactful presence in the world of professional poker, marked by substantial earnings and notable tournament victories.
Colman’s financial success in the poker circuit is exemplified by his impressive accumulation of over $29 million in earnings. This substantial figure places him among the top earners in the poker world, attesting to his skill and consistent performance in high-stakes tournaments.
One of the standout moments in Colman’s career is his victory in a World Series of Poker (WSOP) event, where he secured a coveted WSOP bracelet. This achievement is a testament to his proficiency in live tournament play, adding a prestigious title to his list of accomplishments.
Perhaps one of the most memorable feats in Colman’s poker journey is his triumph in The Big One for One Drop tournament. In this high-stakes event, he not only claimed victory but notably defeated Daniel Negreanu, a poker icon and fellow high-stakes competitor. Colman’s ability to outplay and surpass such formidable opponents further solidified his reputation as a formidable force in the poker world.
- Accumulated over $29 Million in earnings, known as “mrGR33N13.”
- Won a WSOP bracelet and defeated Daniel Negreanu in The Big One for One Drop.
Phil Ivey
Phil Ivey, often referred to as the “Tiger Woods of Poker,” has established himself as one of the most accomplished and enigmatic figures in the world of professional poker.
Despite facing controversies in his career, Ivey’s list of achievements speaks to his prowess at the poker table. He holds an impressive collection of 10 World Series of Poker (WSOP) bracelets, a testament to his consistent excellence in various poker events.
These coveted bracelets represent victories in different tournaments and game formats, showcasing Ivey’s versatility and skill. In addition to his WSOP success, Ivey boasts a World Poker Tour (WPT) title, further solidifying his status as a player capable of triumphing in prestigious tournaments.
His ability to navigate through tough competition and secure victories in diverse poker settings attests to the depth of his strategic understanding of the game. Phil Ivey’s live tournament winnings surpass a substantial $26 million, reflecting not only his skill but also his longevity and sustained success in the competitive poker landscape.
His financial achievements are a testament to his consistent ability to perform at the highest level, making him one of the top earners in the history of professional poker.
However, even with such remarkable achievements, the poker world isn’t immune to scandals and controversies. One such issue that has plagued the online poker scene is the prevalence of cheating. Let’s explore 5 Ways Players Cheat on Online Poker to understand the challenges faced in maintaining the integrity of the game.
- Despite controversies, holds 10 WSOP bracelets and a WPT title.
- Live tournament winnings surpass $26 Million.
Bryn Kenney
Bryn Kenney, known as the “Mega Crusher,” stands atop the all-time money list in the world of professional poker, solidifying his status as one of the most financially successful players in the game.
Kenney’s live earnings surpass an astounding $56 million, making him the highest earner in the history of poker tournaments. This remarkable financial success underscores his consistency and prowess in high-stakes competitions, where he has consistently outperformed his peers.
Beyond his impressive earnings, Kenney is recognized for his role as a consistent performer in the poker arena. His journey in the world of gaming began in Magic: The Gathering, a strategic card game, before he transitioned to poker. This unique background suggests a foundation built on strategic thinking and adaptability, qualities that have contributed to his success on the poker circuit.
Bryn Kenney’s dominance in the all-time money list reflects not only his skill in navigating high-stakes tournaments but also his ability to sustain excellence over an extended period. His transition from Magic: The Gathering to poker showcases a diverse skill set that has allowed him to thrive in different competitive environments.
- Tops the all-time money list with over $56 Million in live earnings.
- Consistent performer, started in Magic: The Gathering before transitioning to poker.
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Dan Smith
Dan Smith, affectionately known as “Cowboy Dan,” has left an indelible mark on the world of professional poker, not only for his substantial earnings but also for his exceptional skill and impactful charitable endeavors.
Smith’s achievements in live tournaments have translated into impressive earnings totaling $33 million, showcasing his prowess as a highly skilled and consistent player in the competitive poker landscape.
His ability to navigate high-stakes tournaments with success has contributed to his standing as one of the top earners in the industry. Beyond his accomplishments on the felt, Dan Smith is equally renowned for his philanthropic efforts.
Recognizing the opportunity to make a positive impact, he founded the “Double Up Drive,” a charitable initiative aimed at supporting those in need. This demonstrates Smith’s commitment to using his success in poker as a platform for giving back to the community, showcasing a compassionate and socially responsible side to his persona.
- Earned $33 Million in live tournaments, known for skill and charity work.
- Founded the Double Up Drive to support those in need.
Fedor Holz
Fedor Holz, known as “CrownUpGuy,” has made a significant impact on the world of professional poker, distinguishing himself as a German sensation with substantial winnings totaling nearly $33 million.
Holz’s success is notable for his proficiency as an online poker player who successfully transitioned to the live tournament circuit. His adaptability and skill in both online and live games have contributed to his remarkable financial achievements, positioning him among the top earners in the poker community.
With close to $33 million in winnings, Holz’s journey reflects a strategic understanding of the game and an ability to navigate high-stakes competitions effectively. His accomplishments on the felt showcase not only his talent but also his capacity to excel in different formats and environments within the poker world.
- German sensation with nearly $33 Million in winnings.
- Successful online player who transitioned to live games.
Conclusion
In summary, our list of the best poker players combines skill, achievements, and impact on the game. Legends like Doyle Brunson, Johnny Moss, and Phil Hellmuth showcase longevity and excellence.
Young talents like Justin Bonomo and Daniel Colman dominate major tournaments. Icons like Daniel Negreanu contribute charisma and record-breaking wins. Controversial figures like Phil Ivey leave an indelible mark, while Bryn Kenney and Dan Smith demonstrate consistent success.
Fedor Holz, a German sensation, inspires with his versatile play. Each player contributes uniquely to the rich tapestry of poker history. While acknowledging the debate around the greatest players, we believe that these individuals would undoubtedly pose a formidable challenge to any opponent they encounter.
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