Erik Seidel’s journey from a young man struggling with dyslexia to becoming one of the most iconic figures in the world of professional poker is nothing short of remarkable. With over $35 million in lifetime earnings, nine World Series of Poker (WSOP) bracelets, and numerous other titles to his name, Erik Seidel’s status as a legend in the poker world is well-deserved.
Early Life and Dyslexia
Born on November 6, 1959, in New York, NY, Erik Seidel’s childhood was marked by a love for crime books and an initial aspiration to become a lawyer. However, he faced significant challenges due to dyslexia, a reading disability that made it difficult for him to decode words and letters. Despite his normal intelligence and vision, Seidel struggled with reading, leading him to believe he wasn’t cut out for the business world or any other. Dyslexia resulted from differences in the brain’s language processing areas, making reading a formidable obstacle for young Erik.
Erik and the Magic of Backgammon
Seidel’s determination to excel led him to explore various avenues, and he found his calling in Backgammon. He developed a remarkable skill for the game and started winning, earning a living from his Backgammon prowess. Timing played a pivotal role in his success as a Backgammon player, as the game’s renaissance coincided with Seidel’s residence in New York, where he crossed paths with influential figures like Paul Magriel, who transformed and revolutionized the game. This fortuitous environment enabled him to hone his Backgammon skills.
Despite his father’s initial skepticism about earning a living from Backgammon, Erik Seidel’s commitment to success ultimately earned his father’s approval.
The Super Shy Kid
Erik Seidel’s poker career began with his introduction to Backgammon, and like many in the poker world, he started as a socially shy individual, particularly around women. His social isolation and shyness, traits common among poker players, didn’t deter him from excelling at the poker table, where being unique and unconventional is celebrated.
The Wolf of Wall Street
Seidel’s appetite for risk-taking led him to Wall Street, where he worked as a trader until the stock market crash in 1987. Following this financial setback, Seidel turned to poker, a game he learned from renowned players at the famous Mayfair Club in New York, with mentors like Dan Harrington and Howard Lederer shaping his poker skills.
Professional Poker Career
Erik Seidel’s professional poker career began to flourish in 1988 when he became the runner-up in the WSOP Main Event. This accomplishment marked the start of his legendary poker journey, which has since spanned over three decades. Over the years, he has accumulated nine WSOP bracelets and countless other poker titles, establishing himself as a true poker icon.
WSOP Achievements
Seidel’s WSOP achievements are nothing short of extraordinary. He has won bracelets in five different games, including Hold ’em, Omaha, and Deuce to Seven Draw. With nearly 120 WSOP cashes, Seidel ranks fifth on the all-time money list, showcasing his consistent excellence in the world of poker.
Top 5 WPT Winnings
Erik Seidel’s poker success extends beyond the WSOP. He has eight final table finishes in the World Poker Tour (WPT), including a victory in the 2008 WPT Foxwoods Poker Classic, where he earned nearly $1 million. His versatility as a player is evident in his ability to excel in various poker tournaments.
European Poker Tour and Other Ventures
Seidel’s poker prowess knows no borders. In the European Poker Tour (EPT), he secured the €100,000 Super High Roller title in 2015, showcasing his adaptability in international poker tournaments. His winnings and achievements extend to various high-stakes events, making him a force to be reckoned with in the global poker arena.
Erik Seidel’s Net Worth and Personal Life
Erik Seidel’s net worth is estimated to exceed $42 million in 2023, a testament to his enduring success in professional poker. His personal life has been enriched by his loving wife and two daughters, and he has found a unique perspective on life that has contributed to his consistent success on the poker circuit. Meditation plays a role in his mental preparation for poker, and his ability to maintain perspective and embrace the randomness of the game sets him apart.
As Erik Seidel continues to play and compete at the highest levels of professional poker, his legacy as a poker legend endures, inspiring players around the world with his remarkable journey and achievements.