It’s no coincidence that poker has become the go-to pastime for professional footballers. Whether it’s killing time on long team bus rides, unwinding in hotel rooms before a Champions League clash, preparing for an MLS tie, or raising the stakes in post-training card games, poker has embedded itself deep into the culture of football dressing rooms around the world. For elite players who thrive on competition, strategy, and adrenaline, it’s the perfect outlet away from the pitch.
In fact, many stars say the intensity of poker rivals the rush of match day. The psychological warfare. The calculated risk. The art of reading an opponent. These elements are second nature to footballers accustomed to making split-second decisions under pressure, according to a study by academic James Wheaton. So when retirement rolls around or off-seasons stretch long, it’s no wonder so many players take their talents to the table.
Legends of the poker world like Chris Moneymaker—whose 2003 World Series of Poker (WSOP) win sparked a global boom—have helped glamorize the game. They’ve also helped grow the game in recent years into what is now classed as a sport. Moneymaker has been instrumental in growing poker in major states as well. Live and online poker in California is thriving at the moment, mainly due to the fact that Americas Cardroom—who Moneymaker is an ambassador for—is able to operate in the state as it is an offshore poker platform. Thus, it has built a huge player base in the state thanks to one of poker’s biggest names.
Stars like Phil Ivey, Daniel Negreanu, and Chris Moorman have also shown what’s possible with discipline and skill, inspiring athletes across sports to sharpen their own games. Today, a growing list of footballers aren’t just dabbling—they’re thriving in high-stakes poker environments, from televised charity showdowns to deep WSOP runs.
This article highlights 10 footballers who have made impressive strides in the poker world, proving that their competitive edge doesn’t end with the final whistle.
1. Gerard Piqué
The Barcelona legend and World Cup winner has arguably made the biggest splash in poker circles. A longtime poker fan, Piqué has cashed in multiple professional tournaments and even played in high-roller events alongside the game’s elites. His most notable cash came at the EPT Barcelona in 2019, where he placed second in a €25,000 buy-in event and took home over €350,000. Piqué’s analytical mind and fearless style translate seamlessly from defense to the felt.
2. Neymar Jr.
The Brazilian forward isn’t shy about his love for poker. Neymar has been a global ambassador for PokerStars and regularly streams his games online. Known for his flashy style on the pitch, he brings the same flair to poker. While he hasn’t scored a massive tournament win yet, Neymar has played in several WSOP events and charity tournaments, often alongside pros. His charisma and natural risk-taking make him a standout at the table.
3. Teddy Sheringham
The former Manchester United and England striker took his poker career seriously after retiring from football. Sheringham has racked up more than $330,000 in live tournament earnings, including a deep run at the 2012 EPT Main Event in London. Known for his composed demeanor and intelligent positioning on the pitch, Sheringham’s patience and game-reading skills have served him just as well in poker.
4. Tony Cascarino
Former Ireland international Tony Cascarino has become a regular feature in UK poker tournaments. After hanging up his boots, he transitioned to broadcasting and poker, proving he’s just as comfortable with chips as he was with headers. With over $600,000 in live earnings, including multiple five-figure wins, Cascarino’s poker résumé is as impressive as some of his footballing feats.
5. Jan Vang Sørensen
This Danish former pro footballer turned full-time poker pro has become a force in European poker circles. After a knee injury ended his football career, Sørensen turned to cards and has since won two WSOP bracelets. With over $2 million in earnings, he’s one of the most successful athlete-turned-poker players on the list.
6. Vikash Dhorasoo
The former France international and AC Milan midfielder brought his cerebral playing style into the world of poker. Dhorasoo reached the final table of several French poker tournaments and is known for his philosophical approach to both football and cards. He once produced a poker-themed documentary titled Tout est pardonné, exploring the psychological side of the game.
7. Tomas Brolin
The former Swedish international and Leeds United forward has reinvented himself as a dedicated poker enthusiast. Brolin has played in multiple PokerStars events and made appearances on televised poker shows. While his poker winnings haven’t reached the highs of some peers, his commitment to the game and appearances in celebrity tournaments have made him a well-known figure at the felt.
8. Christian Vieri
The Italian goal machine known for his time at Inter Milan and Atlético Madrid has long spoken about his love for poker. Vieri has participated in several international tournaments and was even part of Team Italy for the Nations Cup of Poker. His bold playing style mirrors his fearless approach in front of goal, making him a thrilling watch at the table.
9. Anthony Gardner
The former Tottenham and Hull City defender might be a surprise name on this list, but Gardner has quietly built a solid poker profile. He’s been spotted at various UK poker events and has made it to the money in several mid-stakes tournaments. Known for his methodical style on the pitch, his transition into poker has been low-key but effective.
10. David Levi
Though born in Israel and more known in poker than football today, Levi had a professional football career before a leg injury ended it. Since then, he’s become a seasoned poker veteran with over $4 million in live tournament earnings. Based in Las Vegas, Levi has numerous WSOP cashes and final tables under his belt, making him one of the most successful footballer-turned-poker pros ever.