Poker Stars to Watch In 2025: Fresh Faces From Around The Globe

We’re only a few weeks into the new year, which means there’s still plenty of time to look ahead at what’s shaping up to be an exciting year in poker. With the World Series of Poker (WSOP) and other on the calendar this year, some fresh talent is gearing up to make their mark.

Live Events Are Back; Watch Out For The Talent

If you thought this list would be dominated by Americans—think again. Here are some young, up-and-coming poker talents to watch in 2025:

1. Samuel Mullur (Austria)

Austria is the home to top-tier poker talent, and Samuel Mullur is one of its newest rising stars. In 2024, he pulled off a massive €2.5 million win in the Bahamas, then followed it up with a runner-up finish at the Triton Series in Monte Carlo, adding nearly another €1 million to his bankroll. Mullur is part of the “Pokercode” team ran by the German Fedor Holz. Keep an eye on this guy—his momentum is undeniable.

2. Tom Fuchs (Germany)

Germany has produced some of the best poker players in the world, and Tom Fuchs is carrying on the tradition. Living in Vienna, he is balancing study sessions, fitness, and coaching under the guidance of Fedor Holz. His hard work paid off in 2024 when he took home €261,000 at the Triton High Roller Series in Monte Carlo. With his work ethic and steady improvement, Fuchs could be a breakout star in 2025.

3. Daniel Neilson (Australia)

Currently ranked as Australia’s top player on the Global Poker Index, Daniel Neilson has consistently demonstrated his prowess in both national and international tournaments. On the return of the Aussie Millions in April 2025 at Crown Melbourne, his strategic play and deep understanding of the game will make him a formidable contender.

3. Joshua McCully (Australia)

Holding the second spot in Australia’s GPI rankings, Joshua McCully has showcased remarkable skill and consistency. His recent performances have solidified his reputation as one of the country’s leading poker talents. As the tournament scene heats up in Australia, McCully is expected to make significant strides.

3. Landon Tice (USA)

Landon Tice is the young American poker player who started in low-stakes games but quickly moved up to mid- and high-stakes competition. At just 21 years old, he won the $1,100 Mid-States Poker Tour Main Event at the Venetian, bagging $201,529. Tice is never afraid to test himself—his high-profile heads-up match against hedge fund manager Bill Perkins showed just how ambitious he is. With his confidence and aggressive playstyle, he’s set to take on the poker elite in 2025.

4. Lynne Ji (USA)

Lynne Ji has been making a name for herself in the high-stakes cash game scene, with regular appearances on popular poker shows like High Stakes Poker and Live at the Bike. She started playing in 2017 and has a reputation for her fearless and aggressive style. Ji thrives in cash games, particularly in the competitive Los Angeles poker circuit. Expect to see her taking more shots at major tournaments this year.

5. Blaž “Scarmak3r” Žerjav (Slovenia)

Slovenia may not be the first country that comes to mind when thinking of poker powerhouses, but Blaž Žerjav is looking to change that. He worked his way up from micro-stakes online poker games to high-stakes cash battles, proving his skills at every level. His biggest live tournament win came in 2019 when he banked $26,944 in the Czech Republic. As live poker continues to bounce back, Žerjav is ready to make an even bigger impact in 2025.

Honorable Mentions: Legends Still in the Game

While the focus is on rising stars, some legendary names are still going strong and adding to their poker legacies.

• Jennifer Tilly – The Hollywood actress-turned-poker pro—won a WSOP bracelet in 2005 and remains a fixture in high-stakes cash games. She’s been in a long-term relationship with poker pro Phil Laak since 2004 and continues to entertain fans with her charismatic presence at the tables.
• Daniel Negreanu – “Kid Poker” isn’t a kid anymore, but with six WSOP bracelets and over $50 million in tournament earnings, he’s still a force to be reckoned with. Married to Amanda Leatherman since 2019, Negreanu remains one of the most recognisable and engaging players in the game. Expect him to keep making deep runs in major events this year.

The poker world is evolving, and as 2025 unfolds, we’re seeing exciting talent emerging from all over the globe. Whether it’s young European crushers, fearless American newcomers, or seasoned legends still making waves, this year promises to be one of the most thrilling yet.