Daniel Negreanu: The Face of Poker

Daniel Negreanu was born on July 26, 1974, in Toronto, Canada, to Romanian immigrant parents, Annie and Constantin. He showed a love for games and numbers early on, often spending time in pool halls and local casinos. At just 23, he won his first WSOP bracelet, becoming the youngest winner at the time. Known worldwide as “Kid Poker,” Daniel speaks both English and Romanian fluently and currently lives in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Daniel Negreanu’s personal life

Daniel is married to Amanda Leatherman since 2019. The couple lives in Las Vegas, where they keep a balanced lifestyle centered around wellness and mental focus. Daniel is a committed vegan and practices regular physical activity, often promoting plant-based living on his social media.

He’s also a passionate hockey fan, especially of the Toronto Maple Leafs, and has appeared in various sports-related events. Outside the poker world, he actively supports animal protection causes and is involved in several charity initiatives focused on health, sustainability, and education.

Daniel Negreanu’s beginning in Poker

Daniel dropped out of high school one credit short of graduation to pursue poker full time. He started playing in underground games around Toronto and quickly became a regular face in the local poker scene. His confidence and ability to read opponents made him stand out early.

In 1997, he moved to Las Vegas, chasing the big stage. His first attempts didn’t go well—he went broke and had to return to Toronto. But he didn’t give up. He rebuilt his bankroll and came back stronger.

Everything changed in 1998, when he won the $2,000 Pot-Limit Hold’em event at the WSOP. At just 23, he became the youngest bracelet winner in history at the time, earning $169,460 and making headlines worldwide. That moment launched his professional career and gave him the nickname “Kid Poker,” a name that stuck as his fame grew.

Daniel Negreanu’s strategies in Poker and playing style

Daniel is known for his highly adaptive and intuitive approach to the game. While he understands GTO principles, he prefers exploitative strategies—using live reads and opponent profiling to gain an edge. His ability to verbalize hand ranges in real time has become one of his trademarks.

He rarely wears sunglasses or hoodies, choosing instead to stay fully engaged and expressive at the table. Daniel talks a lot during hands, often trying to get reactions from opponents. His “table talk” style makes him a fan favorite and a tough opponent.

He has played almost every poker variant at high levels, but his strongest formats are No-Limit Hold’em and mixed games. Daniel thrives in live tournaments, especially those with deep stacks and long structures. He’s a regular in the biggest buy-in events in the world, from the WSOP to Super High Roller Bowls, often mixing it up with the elite.

Daniel Negreanu’s Greatest Achievements in Poker

World Series of Poker (WSOP)

Daniel Negreanu has secured 7 WSOP bracelets throughout his illustrious career. His victories span various poker variants and showcase his versatility at the tables.

WSOP Bracelet Wins:

• 1998: $2,000 Pot Limit Hold’em – $169,460
• 2003: $2,000 S.H.O.E. – $100,440
• 2004: $2,000 Limit Hold’em – $169,100
• 2008: $2,000 Limit Hold’em – $204,874
• 2013: A$10,000 No Limit Hold’em Main Event (WSOP Asia-Pacific) – A$1,038,825
• 2013: €25,600 High Roller No Limit Hold’em (WSOP Europe) – €725,000
• 2024: $50,000 Poker Players Championship – $1,178,703

In addition to his bracelet wins, Negreanu has amassed over $21 million in WSOP earnings, placing him among the top earners in WSOP history.

World Poker Tour (WPT)

Negreanu has clinched two WPT titles:

• 2004: Borgata Poker Open – $1,009,100
• 2004: Five Diamond World Poker Classic – $1,795,218

His consistent performances have led to 9 WPT final tables and 25 money finishes.

European Poker Tour (EPT)

While a title has eluded him, Negreanu has made 3 EPT final tables and cashed in 6 events, demonstrating his competitiveness on the European circuit.

Online Poker Achievements

Beyond live tournaments, Negreanu has also made his mark online. He has been an active participant in various high-stakes online events and has represented major online poker platforms, further solidifying his status in the digital poker realm.

Daniel Negreanu Poker books

Daniel Negreanu has written some of the most widely read and respected poker books in the world. His writing combines technical strategy with personal experience, making his books popular among beginners and seasoned players alike.

Power Hold’em Strategy

• Published: 2008
• Description: A comprehensive guide that goes beyond the basics, featuring chapters by other top pros like Evelyn Ng and Todd Brunson. Daniel’s own section introduces his “small ball” strategy, which focuses on controlled aggression and pot management to outplay opponents over time.

More Hold’em Wisdom for All Players

• Published: 2007
• Description: A follow-up to his first “Wisdom” book, this collection of short, digestible lessons covers cash game adjustments, tournament tactics, and psychology at the table. It’s designed for players who want fast insights and real advice without the fluff.

Hold’em Wisdom for All Players

• Published: 2006
• Description: A collection of 50 concise tips and insights into No-Limit Hold’em. Written in an easy-to-understand format, it’s ideal for players looking to level up their game quickly.

Daniel Negreanu’s notable TV shows appearances

High Stakes Poker

Daniel was a regular on “High Stakes Poker,” one of the most iconic poker TV shows ever. He faced legends like Phil Ivey, Doyle Brunson, Tom Dwan, and Barry Greenstein across several seasons. His table talk, fearless bluffs, and reads made him one of the show’s highlights.

One of his most memorable hands was against Gus Hansen, where Daniel lost a massive pot with a full house to Hansen’s quad fives. Despite the loss, the hand became legendary and showcased his fearless approach to the game.

Poker After Dark

Negreanu also played in “Poker After Dark,” a late-night poker TV series known for its deep-stacked sit-and-gos. His appearances included special themed weeks like “Dream Table” and “Commentators Week,” where he played with and against both legends and rising stars.

He brought energy and insight to the table, often entertaining the audience with behind-the-scenes commentary while maintaining his competitive edge.

The Big Game (PokerStars)

Negreanu also appeared on “The Big Game,” where he played alongside amateurs and pros in a cash game format. He often acted as a mentor to the amateur “Loose Cannon” players, offering strategy tips and friendly encouragement while still competing at full intensity.

His balance between competition and charisma made him a natural TV presence and helped grow the game.

Daniel Negreanu’s Most Iconic Hands and TV Moments

Daniel Negreanu’s career is filled with memorable hands and television appearances that have captivated poker fans worldwide. Below are some of his most iconic moments:

Daniel Negreanu CRUSHES Antonio Esfandiari in 3 huge poker hands!

Watch Daniel Negreanu dominate Antonio Esfandiari in three significant hands, showcasing his strategic prowess and psychological insight.

The CRAZIEST Daniel Negreanu Poker Final Table You’ll Ever See!

Experience the intensity of one of the most thrilling final tables featuring Daniel Negreanu, highlighting his competitive spirit and skill under pressure.

Daniel Negreanu DOMINATES Final Table Like You’ve Never Seen Before!

Witness Daniel Negreanu’s exceptional performance as he takes control of a final table, demonstrating his mastery of the game.

Daniel Negreanu Starts 2024 with a BANG!

A compilation of Daniel Negreanu’s impressive plays at the beginning of 2024, reflecting his continued excellence in poker.