The Eight Best British Poker Players – Masters of the Cards
Poker, a game of skill, strategy, and nerve, is immensely popular worldwide. While its origins may be traced back to America, the United Kingdom has produced some of the finest poker talents the world has ever seen. From the bustling casinos of London to the virtual poker tables of online sites, these players have showcased their exceptional talents and contributed significantly to the growth of poker in the UK. In this article, we’ll delve into the world of British poker and highlight the top eight players who have left an indelible mark on the international poker scene.
Stephen Chidwick
When it comes to British poker excellence, few names stand out quite like Stephen Chidwick. Born in 1989, Chidwick is widely regarded as one of the greatest poker players of all time. His online poker journey began on sites like PokerStars and PartyPoker, where he honed his skills before transitioning to live tournaments. His incredible achievements include multiple World Series of Poker (WSOP) bracelets, European Poker Tour (EPT) titles, and a consistent presence in high-stakes cash games. Chidwick’s calm demeanour at the poker table and uncanny ability to read his opponents have earned him over $34 million in live tournament earnings, making him the highest-earning British player in history.
Sam Trickett
Sam Trickett, a former professional footballer, transitioned into the world of poker and quickly made a name for himself as one of the top British players. His most notable achievement came in 2012 when he finished second place in the Big One for One Drop tournament at the WSOP—which has a $1 million buy-in—and took home a staggering $10 million in prize money. Trickett’s aggressive playing style helped him achieve remarkable success in both online and live tournaments, netting him over $21 million in earnings. Trickett’s ability to transition seamlessly from the virtual felt to the live arena is a testament to his poker prowess.
Chris Moorman
Known as the “Online Poker Legend,” Chris Moorman has dominated the online poker domain for years. Moorman made a name for himself on sites like 888poker and PokerStars, where he earned over $17 million in online tournament winnings and became one of the undisputed kings of the online poker world. He holds a record-breaking 30 PocketFives Triple Crowns, a testament to his online dominance. Moorman’s dedication to improving his game and adapting to the ever-changing online landscape is a testament to his longevity and success in poker. But his success extends to live tournaments as well, with a WSOP bracelet to his name and numerous other notable cashes. His dedication to the game and analytical approach to poker strategy have solidified his status as one of Britain’s top poker talents.
Liv Boeree
Liv Boeree is a multifaceted talent in the world of poker. Not only is she one of the best female poker players in the world, but she’s also a TV presenter, writer and science communicator who has contributed significantly to the popularization of poker in the UK. While she has made her mark in live tournaments, her early days involved playing on online poker sites, such as PokerStars. Boeree’s poker career highlights include winning the European Poker Tour Sanremo Main Event and securing over $3.8 million in live tournament earnings. Her thoughtful and strategic approach to the game has made her a respected figure in the poker community.
David “Devilfish” Ulliott
Although he tragically passed away in 2015, David Ulliott, affectionately known as “Devilfish,” is a British poker legend whose legacy endures. Ulliott was a charismatic and fearless player who made his mark on the European and global poker scenes. His career was punctuated by a World Poker Tour (WPT) title and a WSOP bracelet, solidifying his reputation as one of the UK’s finest poker players.
Victoria Coren Mitchell
Victoria Coren Mitchell is a trailblazer in British poker, and her achievements have shattered gender stereotypes in the game. In 2006, she became the first woman to win a European Poker Tour event, and she followed it up with a historic second win in 2014. Coren Mitchell’s eloquence and charm, combined with her poker prowess, have made her an influential figure in the UK poker community.
Jake Cody
Jake Cody burst onto the poker scene at a young age and quickly established himself as a force to be reckoned with. In 2010, he won the EPT Deauville Main Event, becoming the youngest British player to achieve this feat at the time. Cody’s aggressive style and willingness to take risks have served him well in both tournaments and cash games. With over $4 million in live tournament winnings, he remains a formidable force in British poker.
James Dempsey
James Dempsey, known as “Flushy” in the poker world, is a highly skilled British player with a solid track record in live and online tournaments. Dempsey’s most significant achievement came in 2011 when he won a WSOP bracelet in a $1,500 Pot-Limit Hold’em event. His consistent performance and adaptability at the poker table have earned him respect among his peers and a place among the true legends of British poker.
Conclusion
The poker world has seen British players rise to prominence with exceptional skills, strategic brilliance, and unwavering determination. Stephen Chidwick, Sam Trickett, Chris Moorman, Liv Boeree and James Dempsey are just a few of the exemplary British poker players who have made their mark on the international stage in online and in-person tournaments alike. Their contributions to the game have not only brought them fame and fortune but have also inspired countless aspiring poker players across the United Kingdom and far beyond. As the poker world continues to evolve, these players remain a testament to the enduring legacy of British poker excellence.