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Patrick “Pads” Leonard is a world-class British professional poker player, widely regarded as one of the most successful online tournament players in history. Originally from Newcastle, England, Leonard has transitioned from an online “grinder” to a high-stakes fixture on the global live circuit. A former #1 ranked online player in the world, he solidified his live legacy by winning a WSOP bracelet in 2022. In 2026, Leonard remains at the pinnacle of the game, currently dominating the PokerGO Tour (PGT) rankings following a string of high-roller victories in Las Vegas. Beyond the felt, he is a respected coach and the co-founder of bitB Staking, influencing the next generation of elite talent.
Career Earnings & Legendary Online Record
While his live tournament earnings have recently eclipsed the $5,050,600 mark (according to The Hendon Mob), Leonard’s true “legend” status was built online. Under the screen name “pads1161”, he has amassed over $19,265,000 in online cashes, including a staggering 10 SCOOP titles and 11 WCOOP titles on PokerStars. His 2026 season has been a career-best for live play, highlighted by a victory in the PGT Last Chance Event #2 for $315,000. Currently ranked 23rd on the England All-Time Money List, his combined live and online success points to a poker net worth exceeding $15 million.
Major Tournament Results:
| Year | Event | Prize |
|---|---|---|
| 2026 | PGT Last Chance $10,100 No Limit Hold’em (1st) | $315,000 |
| 2026 | PGT Mixed Games $15,200 Big Bet Mix (2nd) | $166,950 |
| 2022 | WSOP $1,000 Tag Team (1st – Bracelet) | $148,067 |
| 2017 | Bellagio Cup XIII $10,400 No Limit Hold’em (2nd) | $475,940 |
Biography & Rise to Prominence
Patrick Leonard’s poker journey began in 2009, fueled by a competitive drive developed through his early years as a soccer player. He famously climbed the ranks by “consuming” poker content, studying the posts of high-stakes legends on forums like Two Plus Two. His relentless work ethic earned him the nickname “Crazy Pads,” which eventually softened into the more respectful “Pads” as he became a dominant force in online Multi-Table Tournaments (MTTs). His 2022 WSOP bracelet win alongside Espen Jostad proved he could replicate his online volume-based success in the highest-pressure live environments. In 2026, he is a primary ambassador for the PokerGO Tour, frequently appearing in televised high-stakes events at the Aria.
Play Style & Strategy
Leonard is a master of theoretical range-based strategy combined with an aggressive, modern flair. As one of the early adopters of “solver” technology, his game is built on a foundation of mathematical precision and GTO (Game Theory Optimal) principles. However, he is equally known for his exploitability, adjusting his play based on the population tendencies of specific fields. He is a vocal proponent of high-volume play and mental endurance; his ability to balance 12+ online tables while maintaining elite decision-making is a hallmark of his technical skill. In live play, he is noted for his deep comfort in Mixed Games and short-handed structures.
Social Media & Online Presence
Patrick is one of the most active pros on social media, often sharing strategy tips and “behind the scenes” looks at the high-stakes life:
