Barry Greenstein

Barry Greenstein

It was a career in software or a career in poker for Barry Greenstein after he’d earned a computer science degree at the University of Illinois. A PhD in mathematics followed during which time he played poker in free time – a game that eventually led him to turn his back on lucrative software jobs. It was a good choice with an even bigger fortune to be earned at the baize.

Barry turned pro in 1991; such was his success at the poker tables, earning enough to effectively ‘retire’ from his day job. It was a good move that to this day has left him with a long list of achievements, particularly at the World Series of Poker* and the World Poker Tour. Twelve final tables have come at the WSOP*, as well as over 30 cashes and three bracelets, in the $5,000 No Limit 2-7 Draw in 2004, the $1,500 Pot Limit Omaha in 2005 and the $1,500 Seven Card Razz event in 2008.

Barry’s WPT record is no less impressive having appeared on six final tables and winning two. In 2004 he won the World Poker Open worth $1,278,370 then two years later he won the 2006 LA Poker Classic, an invitational worth $100,000. Results like these have sent his career tournament earnings to the $6million mark. But Barry’s record is not restricted to tournaments – cash tables have shown him to be one of the most successful cash players in the game, with frequent appearances on High Stakes Poker and in the biggest game in Las Vegas at Bobby’s Room at Bellagio. Rarely does he walk away without winning.

Away from the game Barry is the author of ‘Ace on the River’ a strategy book that is often found in the hands of the fortunate player responsible for eliminating Barry from a tournament. But more significantly Barry’s charity work has made him a respected face everywhere, having donated the results of much of his tournament success to good causes, particularly Children Incorporated.

When it comes to poker legends Barry is deservedly one of a select few. He may have seen everything poker has to offer but as a member of Team PokerStars Pro Barry continues to dominate the game.