Poker is a game that offers not just wealth, but global fame, mystique, and a lifestyle that many poker players dream of. Yet beneath the glitter of million-dollar payouts and glamorous tournament halls lies a reality that’s far more nuanced.
Let’s break it down, starting with the top earners in poker today.
Richest Poker Players in the World
1. Bryn Kenney — $75.77 Million in Live Tournament Winnings
No one has made more money in live poker tournaments than Bryn Kenney, at least on paper. His career-defining moment came in the 2019 Triton Million for Charity, where he made a heads-up deal to lock up $20.5 million, the biggest single payout in poker history.
Kenney’s poker style is fearless, adaptive, and often deeply psychological. Over the years, he’s transitioned from grinder to poker mogul, launching 4Poker, a new online poker platform, and stepping into roles beyond the felt.
But critics point out that some of Kenney’s largest scores came from events with rebuys and deals, which can inflate earnings on paper without reflecting actual take-home profit. Still, there’s no denying his dominance in the high-roller scene.
Top Cashes:
- $20,563,324 – Triton Million for Charity (2019)
- $6,860,000 – Triton London Invitational (2023)
- $4,410,000 – Triton Monte Carlo Main Event (2024)
2. Justin Bonomo — $65.61 Million in Live Winnings
Few names evoke as much respect (and controversy) as Justin Bonomo. With a deeply analytical style and a focus on high ROI spots, Bonomo carved his name into poker history with a $10 million win in the 2018 Big One for One Drop at the WSOP.
Beyond the felt, Bonomo is known for his candid takes on social issues, vegan lifestyle, and introspective nature. He plays selectively now, having pulled back from the grind, but his legacy continues to grow.
Top Cashes:
- $10,000,000 – WSOP Big One for One Drop (2018)
- $5,000,000 – Super High Roller Bowl IV (2018)
- $4,823,077 – Super High Roller Bowl China (2018)
3. Stephen Chidwick — $64.08 Million in Live Winnings
Often described by peers as the most intimidating player to face, Stephen Chidwick doesn’t make headlines, he makes deep runs. Known for mastering mixed games as well as No-Limit Hold’em, Chidwick is a player’s player.
He rarely boasts massive single-event wins, yet his bankroll has grown steadily over the years through consistent cashes, a highly disciplined bankroll strategy, and unwavering focus. He’s often seen as the ultimate technician at the table.
Top Cashes:
- $5,368,947 – Triton Million (2019)
- $1,916,463 – Triton Madrid (2022)
- $1,618,417 – WSOP PLO High Roller (2019)
4. Mikita Badziakouski — $60.96 Million in Live Winnings
The pride of Belarus, Mikita Badziakouski is known for his cerebral approach to high-roller events. Since bursting onto the scene, he has earned respect across Asia and Europe for dominating Triton events and staying calm under pressure.
A quiet, introspective presence at the table, Mikita balances online and live play. His online moniker “fish2013” is well known among digital sharks, but his live results are what really cement his status as one of the richest.
Top Cashes:
- $7,114,500 – WPT World Championship (2023)
- $5,257,027 – Triton Jeju (2018)
- $2,499,184 – Triton Montenegro (2018)
5. Dan Smith — $59.67 Million in Live Winnings
Dan Smith’s rise in poker was built not just on strategic brilliance, but on deep emotional discipline. Starting from online games and transitioning to major live events, Smith’s career has been a study in consistency and resilience.
He also stands out as a philanthropist. His charity initiative, Double Up Drive, has raised millions for global causes. This balance of elite competition and humanitarian focus makes him a beloved figure in the poker world.
Top Cashes:
- $8,765,628 – Triton Million (2019)
- $4,000,000 – WSOP Big One for One Drop (2018)
- $3,870,000 – Triton Monte Carlo (2023)
6. Jason Koon — $59.26 Million in Live Winnings
Jason Koon is arguably the face of the Triton Poker Series. His dedication to the high-stakes tournament scene, particularly in Asia, has led to over 10 titles and dozens of million-dollar-plus finishes.
Known for his physical fitness, mindfulness routines, and calm demeanor, Koon’s presence at the table is both intimidating and respectful. He’s also been one of GGPoker’s top ambassadors, helping shape the game’s global image.
Top Cashes:
- $3,579,836 – Triton Montenegro (2018)
- $2,840,945 – Triton Jeju (2019)
- $2,451,082 – Triton Cyprus (2023)
The Truth About Poker Money & Fame
At first glance, these figures are staggering, tens of millions of dollars won in tournament prize pools. But poker’s richest players often earn and lose far more away from the limelight.
Here’s what’s not always reflected in the rankings:
1. Private Cash Games Are Bigger Than Tournaments
Many of the world’s biggest pots are played in private high-stakes cash games (often in Macau, Las Vegas, or Monte Carlo) with no cameras, no press, and no official results. These games can make or break fortunes far faster than the tournament scene.
2. Gross Earnings ≠ Net Worth
The amounts listed on The Hendon Mob or WSOP databases represent gross earnings — not net profit. After factoring in:
- Buy-ins (which can run up to $1M for a single event)
- Travel and accommodation
- Backers or investors taking a cut
- Taxes in multiple jurisdictions
The actual take-home money may be a fraction of what’s reported.
3. Fame in Poker is Fleeting
Unlike athletes or actors, poker fame rarely translates to long-term celebrity or endorsement deals (with a few exceptions). Most top players still rely heavily on consistent wins to maintain their income. When the cards turn cold, so can the spotlight.
4. Many Legends Aren’t on These Lists
Phil Ivey, Tom Dwan, and other iconic names may not top the tournament earnings list, but they’re widely rumored to have made more in private games and investments than any high-roller ever has on paper.
In poker, being ‘rich’ isn’t just about cashing big. It’s about in-depth understanding of Poker rules, sustainability, bankroll management, and long-term strategy. Always remember: In poker, the biggest winners often aren’t the loudest. And the real money? It’s not always where the cameras are.
Keep following PokerProNews for more such insightful pieces on poker players across the world.
