All poker player rankings tend to be subjective, given that the differences among the top players are minimal. It’s challenging to compare across generations as the game evolves, and it’s also difficult to contrast players from different poker disciplines. However, one reliable way to determine “Who’s the greatest poker player of all time?” is by examining their trophy count. The World Series of Poker (WSOP) is considered the pinnacle of tournament play, so our rankings are based on the number of WSOP bracelets each player has secured.
The “Poker Brat,” Phil Hellmuth, holds the record for the most WSOP bracelets, with 17. He was the youngest to win the WSOP Main Event in 1989 and later triumphed in the WSOP Europe Main Event in 2012. Hellmuth excels in exploiting amateur players, employing his unique “White Magic” to execute plays few would dare. Inducted into the Poker Hall of Fame in 2007, Phil is one of poker’s most prominent personalities.
Often called the “Tiger Woods of Poker,” Phil Ivey is a natural talent. He has won bracelets in various games, including Stud, Omaha, Lowball, and 8-game, and was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2017. With 11 WSOP bracelets, Ivey remains a formidable force, seamlessly dominating both major tournaments and cash games for decades.
Doyle Brunson, known as the “Godfather of Poker,” is a true icon. He revolutionized the game from the 60s to the 80s, authoring the “bible of poker,” Super System, in 1979. With 10 WSOP bracelets, including consecutive Main Event wins in 1976 and 1977, his influence on poker’s popularity and advancement is undeniable. Inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1988, Doyle’s legacy continues to inspire.
Johnny Chan, affectionately known as “The Orient Express,” was a dominant force in the 80s and 90s. His relentless aggression earned him back-to-back Main Event victories in 1987 and 1988. Chan’s mastery extends beyond Hold’em, with bracelets in Omaha, Lowball, and more. With 10 WSOP bracelets, he entered the Poker Hall of Fame in 2002.
Erik Seidel burst onto the scene in the late 80s and has been a top player ever since, with 10 WSOP bracelets and a Hall of Fame induction in 2010. Known for his versatility, Seidel excels in Omaha and Lowball, maintaining his status among the world’s best players.
Johnny Moss, the “Grand Old Man of Poker,” won the first WSOP Main Event by vote in 1970 and 1971, and again in 1974. He played a pivotal role in creating the inaugural WSOP, earning a Hall of Fame spot in 1979. Known for his aggressive style, Moss was ahead of his time.
Shaun Deeb is renowned for his abrasive yet effective style. With eight WSOP bracelets and two WSOP Player of the Year awards, Deeb’s ability to tackle multiple disciplines sets him apart. His intense schedule and instinct at final tables make him a standout player.
Michael “The Grinder” Mizrachi boasts a remarkable WSOP record, having won both the Main Event and the Poker Player’s Championship in 2025. As the only player to win the PPC four times, his aggressive approach solidifies his place among the best.
Benny Glaser, a mixed-game specialist from Southampton, England, is one of the top online tournament players. With eight WSOP bracelets and numerous online victories, Glaser showcases his prowess in multiple poker variants.
Daniel Negreanu, also known as “Kid Poker,” is a fan favorite. His charisma, paired with an exceptional ability to read opponents, has earned him seven WSOP bracelets and two WPT titles. With over $52 million in live tournament earnings, Negreanu, inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2014, continues to expand poker’s reach through social media.