Last Updated on August 24, 2025 by Caesar Fikson

Today, we are unveiling the magnificent top 20 poker pros!

Poker isn’t won by luck alone—it’s won by people who read souls, count odds, and pull the trigger when everyone else freezes. From smoke-stained backrooms to blinding TV lights, a handful of killers turned a card game into a global spectacle and carved their names into its spine.

It isn’t just cards. It’s psychology, game theory, bankroll discipline, and the nerve to fire a third barrel with the tournament on life support. That mix—brains plus audacity—is why poker spread like wildfire and why its greatest architects feel larger than the game itself.

Pull up a chair. We’re spotlighting the twenty players who changed how the rest of us think about ranges, pressure, and what “unfoldable” really means. Records, mind games, and moments that bent the arc of the game—stacked here, with zero fluff and maximum respect.

Greatest Poker Players of All Time: Achievements and Social Profiles

Player	Live Tournament Earnings	Key Achievements	Social Media Profiles
Phil Ivey	$41.1 M+	– 10 WSOP bracelets, incl. 3 in 2002 – 1 WPT title – Poker Hall of Fame (2017) – Legend of high-stakes cash games	🐦 📸
Phil Hellmuth	$29.9 M+	– 17 WSOP bracelets (record holder), incl. ’89 Main Event – 2005 NBC Heads-Up Champion – Poker Hall of Fame (2007) – Most WSOP cashes (162)	🐦 📸
Daniel Negreanu	$50.3 M+	– 6 WSOP bracelets – 2 WPT titles – WSOP POY (2004, 2013) – Poker Hall of Fame (2014) – All-time live earnings leader	🐦 📸
Justin Bonomo	$60.1 M+	– 3 WSOP bracelets, incl. $10 M Big One for One Drop (2018) – 18 majors since 2016 – All-time live earnings leader (as of 2023)	🐦 📸
Doyle Brunson	$6.1 M+	– 10 WSOP bracelets, incl. ’76 & ’77 Main Events – Poker Hall of Fame (1988) – Author of Super/System	—
Johnny Moss	$1.25 M+	– 9 WSOP bracelets, incl. 3 Main Event titles – Poker Hall of Fame (1979) – “Grandfather of Poker”	—
Antonio Esfandiari	$27.8 M+	– 3 WSOP bracelets, incl. $18.3 M One Drop win (2012) – 2 WPT titles – Pro magician-turned-poker star	🐦 📸
Erik Seidel	$42.7 M+	– 9 WSOP bracelets – 1 WPT title – Poker Hall of Fame (2010) – Consistent high-stakes legend	🐦 📸
Stu Ungar	$3.7 M+	– 5 WSOP bracelets, incl. 3 Main Events (’80, ’81, ’97) – Poker Hall of Fame (2001) – Gin-rummy & poker prodigy	—
Dan Smith	$49.7 M+	– 1 WSOP bracelet – Raised $25 M+ charity via Double Up Drive – Top high-roller performer	🐦 📸

Notes

• Earnings: Sourced from The Hendon Mob and PokerNews, reflecting live tournament winnings as of 2023.
• Social Profiles: Links are verified as of June 2025; some players (especially deceased) have no active profiles. Players like Ivey and Seidel maintain minimal social media activity.
• Achievements: Focus on WSOP bracelets, WPT titles, and other notable accomplishments. Poker Hall of Fame induction is a key honor.
• Selection Criteria: Players were chosen based on live tournament earnings, WSOP success, and historical impact. Some, like Brunson and Moss, have lower earnings due to smaller prize pools in their era.
• Limitations: Online earnings and cash game winnings are not included, as they are less reliably documented. Social media presence may change over time.

Top 20 Greatest Poker Players of All Time ♠️♦️

Doyle Brunson

Dubbed “Texas Dolly,” Doyle Brunson heavily influenced the way modern poker works today with his tactics never seen before in the industry. But how did he do it? Let’s delve into his past to learn more!

Early Life

Growing up in Longworth, Texas, certainly gave Doyle Brunson some unforgettable experiences with poker early on in life. His passion for the game ignited during his teen years when he’d engage in intense, smoke-filled games hosted by locals living nearby. This overly exposed him to nearly every type of player there was, allowing him to understand poker dynamics better than most pros nowadays could ever imagine! And from then on there was no stopping him, as nothing was left but all eyes forward towards his career as a professional poker player.

Notable Tournament Wins

Doyle Brunson, also referred to as “Texas Dolly,” has been a formidable presence in the poker world for several decades. Although he’s best known for his back-to-back World Series of Poker Main Event victories in 1976 and 1977, it was his consistent success over the long term that established him as one of the greatest to ever play. Few players have ever been better at reading opponents, switching gears mid-hand or even having such a steady hand under pressure.

Phil Ivey

Phil Ivey doesn’t just play poker—he redefines the edge. Cool as ice, unreadable as a stone idol, and terrifying in any format, he turned “good instincts” into a science and a brand.

Rise to Prominence

No prodigy montage here—just relentless reps. Ivey started small, logged the hours, and learned to see patterns other players didn’t know existed. He sharpened his reads until a twitch looked like a headline, then climbed into the deepest high-stakes waters and never came up for air. The result? A table presence that makes professionals second-guess perfectly fine hands. He didn’t arrive with noise; he arrived with pressure.

Why He’s Different

It’s not luck, and it’s not just math. It’s timing. It’s fearlessness without recklessness. It’s the ability to float between exploitative lines and balanced play depending on the opponent across the felt. Short stack or deep, cash or tournament, mixed games or hold’em—he keeps the range wide and the narrative tight. You feel like you’re playing chess against a statue that already knows move 18.

Notable Achievements

Stack the trophies however you like—multi-bracelet WSOP champion, elite high-stakes closer, a fixture in nosebleed cash games—and the picture is the same: sustained excellence. Title runs read like case studies in control: pressure preflop, torture on turns, and river decisions that look insane until the chips slide his way. His resume didn’t happen by accident; it’s what you get when talent, discipline, and ice-cold execution keep showing up on time.

Impact & Legacy

Ivey changed how serious players think about “feel.” He made it rigorous. He made it repeatable. And he made the rest of the field a little less comfortable. Ask around: the scariest sentence in poker might still be, “You’re in a big pot with Phil.”

Daniel Negreanu

Daniel Negreanu, the charismatic poker icon, has captured the hearts of fans worldwide with his engaging personality and exceptional skills at the poker tables. Let’s explain why he is one of the greatest poker players of all time.

Poker Persona and Popularity

Daniel Negreanu’s infectious charm and wit have made him a favorite in the poker world. His ability to connect with fans on a personal level has propelled him to stardom, both in and out of the poker scene. Known for his approachable demeanor and candid nature, Negreanu has cemented himself as a household name in the industry.

Skill and Strategy

Negreanu’s prowess at the poker table is unparalleled. His strategic approach to the game, coupled with his adaptability and remarkable ability to read opponents, sets him apart from his peers. With a keen eye for detail and a razor-sharp mind, Negreanu has consistently outwitted some of the best in the game, solidifying his status as a poker legend.

Phil Hellmuth

Phil Hellmuth, a household name in the world of professional poker, has made a lasting impression thanks to his exceptional skills and controversial flair. Let’s enter the realms of his remarkable journey.

Record-Breaking Performances

Phil Hellmuth has amassed an astounding 15 World Series of Poker bracelets, making him one of the most successful poker players in history. His aptitude for tournament play has solidified his reputation as a formidable force at the table, showcasing a level of consistency and strategic prowess that few can match.

In breaking records and setting new standards, Hellmuth’s triumphs have become legendary within the poker community. Each bracelet symbolizes his dedication, skill, and constant search for excellence in the game he loves.

Controversy and Charisma

Beyond his unparalleled success on the felt, Phil Hellmuth is known for his larger-than-life personality and penchant for stirring up controversy. His fiery demeanor and unapologetic approach have both divided and entertained audiences worldwide.

In the heat of competition, Hellmuth’s outbursts and theatrics have added flair to poker tournaments, earning him a reputation for both his polarizing behavior and undeniable charisma. Hellmuth’s presence at the table, whether he’s celebrating victory or facing defeat, consistently adds a dramatic element that keeps fans captivated.

Erik Seidel

You’ve probably heard the name Erik Seidel before. Erik Seidel, a talented poker player, has made a significant impact on the game and has a captivating story to share.

Seidel’s career has seen him racking up victories in numerous tournaments all over the world. Seidel has earned multiple World Series of Poker (WSOP) bracelets and millions in prize money during his time at the table, demonstrating his expertise in card games.

When it comes to strategy, few are better at it than this person. Known for his disciplined gameplay and methodical approach, Seidel is always thinking three steps ahead of everyone else. He can read opponents like an open book, and his ability to make precise moves has made him one of the greatest poker players ever.

And let’s not forget about his humble nature! On top of being a true gentleman at the table, Seidel is also an incredibly charming guy in real life. Fans adore him for how genuinely kind he is to everyone he meets.

Erik Seidel will forever be remembered as one of the most impressive figures in poker history.

Adapting to the constantly evolving poker world is one of Seidel’s most impressive qualities. He’s shown a knack for staying ahead in the ever-changing game since day one. As strategies change, he finds ways to adjust his own gameplay and stay on top. That willingness to adapt has paid off in big ways for him during high-stakes events. On top of that, Seidel has impacted the sport beyond his own achievements. With new playstyles and an unwavering focus on excellence, he’s influenced more players than you can count. Each hand played is another example of how important it is to be adaptable in poker, proving that lasting success comes from being able to change with the times.

Vanessa Selbst

Vanessa Selbst, a formidable figure in the poker world, has defied stereotypes and established herself as one of the greatest players of all time. Let’s dive into how this extraordinary woman made her mark on the game.

Female Poker Pioneer

Vanessa Selbst’s journey in poker is truly remarkable. Despite facing a male-dominated industry, Vanessa Selbst fearlessly navigated her way to the top, showcasing her skills and strategic brilliance in the game. Her trailblazing career is adorned with numerous victories in prestigious tournaments, solidifying her reputation as a poker powerhouse. With an insatiable drive, Selbst overcame challenges and obstacles, setting new standards and inspiring a generation of aspiring female players.

Impact on Poker Community

Vanessa Selbst’s impact transcends her accolades. She has been a beacon of inclusivity in the poker community, advocating for diversity and equality at the tables. Her strategic prowess is unmatched, with a keen ability to outmaneuver opponents and dominate the game. As an ambassador for poker, Selbst has elevated the level of play and fostered a welcoming environment for players of all backgrounds. Her influence continues to shape the future of poker, ensuring that the game remains accessible and enjoyable for everyone.

Chris Moneymaker

Amateur to Champion

Chris Moneymaker’s journey from amateur to champion in poker is a captivating tale that captivated the hearts of many. From a humble amateur player to becoming a World Series of Poker (WSOP) champion in 2003, he redefined the notion that anyone with a dream could make it big in the poker world. His historic win at the 2003 WSOP Main Event solidified his place in poker history and sparked a new wave of interest in the game, especially online poker. Moneymaker’s victory showcased the democratization of poker, inspiring countless enthusiasts to try their luck at the tables and contributing to the ‘poker boom’ of the early 2000s. His journey from an unknown player to a household name demonstrated that with skill, determination, and a little luck, anyone could achieve success in the world of poker.

Popularizing Poker

Chris Moneymaker’s impact on the mainstream popularity of poker cannot be overstated. His unexpected triumph at the 2003 WSOP Main Event not only earned him a place in poker history but also helped bring the game to a wider audience. Moneymaker’s approachable personality and relatable charm resonated with fans worldwide, establishing him as a relatable figure in the world of professional poker. His underdog story showcased that with dedication and a strategic mindset, even a novice player could compete against the best in the world and come out on top. The lasting effects of Moneymaker’s historic victory continue to shape the landscape of poker, inspiring new generations of players to test their skills and chase their dreams of glory at the tables.

Stu Ungar

Stu Ungar, a legendary figure in the world of poker, was a true prodigy when it came to the game. Poker Prodigy At an early age, he displayed an unparalleled natural aptitude for poker, astounding seasoned players with his strategic mind and intuitive grasp of the game. Despite his youth, Ungar quickly rose to prominence, showcasing an extraordinary level of skill that left his competitors in awe.

Poker Prodigy

Stu Ungar’s poker journey began with remarkable successes that defied his age. His ingenious plays and uncanny ability to read opponents set him apart from the crowd. Ungar’s intricate character enhanced his gameplay and established him as a formidable presence at the poker table. His strategic brilliance and fearless approach earned him widespread admiration and respect within the poker community.

Tragic Legacy

However, alongside his poker triumphs, Stu Ungar also faced personal struggles that cast a shadow over his legacy. Tragic Legacy His battles with addiction took a toll on his health and well-being, leading to a tragic end that cut short the life of one of poker’s most gifted players. Despite his remarkable talent, Ungar’s story serves as a poignant reminder of the darker side of fame and success, leaving behind a bittersweet legacy that continues to resonate in the world of poker.

Jennifer Harman

Jennifer Harman, a renowned figure in the world of poker, has established a lasting legacy through her exceptional skills and unwavering passion for the game. Let’s begin by discussing why she deserves her spot among the greatest poker players of all time.

Cash Game Specialist

Jennifer Harman has solidified her reputation as a cash game specialist through her unparalleled expertise and consistency at the tables. Known for her strategic prowess and calm demeanor, she has showcased her ability to compete at the highest levels of poker with remarkable success. Whether it’s navigating intense showdowns or making astute decisions under pressure, Harman’s skill set in cash games is truly unparalleled.

Women in Poker Advocacy

Beyond her remarkable gameplay, Jennifer Harman has been a trailblazer in advocating for women in poker. Her unwavering support and efforts to promote gender equality within the poker community have been instrumental in paving the way for aspiring female players. Harman’s contributions to the game’s growth extend beyond her victories at the tables, influencing a new generation of players and reshaping the landscape of poker for the better.

Conclusion

Shaping the game’s history and inspiring players worldwide, the Top 20 Greatest Poker Players of All Time will forever be known. Texas Dolly, Phil Ivey, Grandfather of Poker Johnny Moss, and The Poker Brat Phil Hellmuth have all left their own mark on the game—while Stu Ungar’s unmatched talent has yet to be replicated by another player.

Poker is constantly changing, as shown by Justin Bonomo’s recent rise to the top. Just as you believe you’ve experienced everything the game has to offer, someone emerges to redefine it. If there’s one thing that unites these 10 legends, it’s their dedication to greatness in a sport designed for surprises.

As you take your first steps into the world of poker (or continue your journey), remember where each of these stars started—at square one. From there, they put in countless hours perfecting their craft—something every aspiring player must do if they want a chance at success. While achieving their level may be challenging, they have consistently demonstrated that anything is achievable with a combination of luck and determination.