Famous Poker Players from Ireland
👤 Player Profiles: Based on publicly available tournament data.
🇮🇪 Famous Poker Players from Ireland
Ireland has a rich poker heritage stretching back to the 1980s Irish Open. Irish players are known for their fearless, creative play and the incredible camaraderie of the Irish poker community. The Irish Open is one of Europe’s oldest and most beloved poker festivals.
Padraig Parkinson
Irish poker legend, 1999 WSOP Main Event 3rd place. Pioneer.
Padraig Parkinson is the father of Irish poker. His 3rd place finish in the 1999 WSOP Main Event ($195K) put Ireland on the poker map. Parkinson’s wit, charm, and skill at the table made him a fan favorite on early poker TV broadcasts. He remains an active presence in the Irish poker community.
Steve Previn
Irish Open champion and consistent European performer.
Steve Previn has been a stalwart of the Irish poker scene with Irish Open results and regular deep runs in European events.
Andy Black
5th place 2005 WSOP Main Event ($1.75M). Irish poker ambassador.
Andy Black’s 5th place finish in the 2005 WSOP Main Event came during the poker boom and inspired a wave of Irish players. A former Buddhist monk, Black’s unique backstory and calm demeanor at the table made him one of the most popular Irish players internationally.
Donnacha O’Dea
Irish poker pioneer, WSOP bracelet winner, Olympic swimmer.
Donnacha O’Dea is one of Ireland’s most fascinating poker figures — an Olympic swimmer who became one of the first Irish WSOP bracelet winners. His son Eoghan O’Dea also reached the 2011 WSOP Main Event final table, creating a unique father-son poker legacy.
Marc MacDonnell
Modern Irish poker star with major tournament victories.
Marc MacDonnell represents the modern generation of Irish poker talent with significant results in European events and Irish championship titles.