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Richard Kirsch
Richard Kirsch is a highly respected American professional poker player and a veteran of the high-stakes circuit. Originally from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, Kirsch has been a consistent force in the poker world for over two decades. Known for his technical proficiency in No-Limit Hold’em and his ability to navigate massive championship fields, he reached a significant career milestone by surpassing $3 million in total live earnings. In 2026, he remains an active competitor, recently adding deep runs in Las Vegas and Florida to his legendary resume.
Career Earnings & Biggest Results
With total live tournament earnings now exceeding $3,094,400 (according to The Hendon Mob), Richard Kirsch is a prominent figure on the Florida All-Time Money List, currently ranked 42nd. His career is highlighted by two prestigious World Poker Tour (WPT) final tables, most notably a 6th-place finish in the 2017 WPT Five Diamond World Poker Classic for $271,736. Proving his longevity, Kirsch has maintained a steady presence in the mid-2020s, with a standout runner-up finish at the 2023 Wynn Summer Classic for $232,558. His sustained success across three decades of play contributes to an estimated poker net worth of over $4 million.
Major Tournament Results:
| Year | Event | Prize |
|---|---|---|
| 2017 | WPT Five Diamond World Poker Classic $10,400 NLHE (6th) | $271,736 |
| 2023 | Wynn Summer Classic $1,100 NLHE (2nd) | $232,558 |
| 2007 | WPT Mirage Poker Showdown $10,000 NLHE (4th) | $172,912 |
| 2024 | Wynn Summer Classic $10,400 Championship (83rd) | $30,905 |
| 2025 | WSOP $3,000 Mid-Stakes Championship (343rd) | $6,304 |
Biography & Poker Background
Born and raised in Fort Lauderdale, Richard Kirsch is often cited as one of the original “grinders” of the South Florida poker scene. He first gained national attention during the poker boom of the mid-2000s, making his first WPT final table in 2007 at the Mirage. Unlike many players of that era who faded away, Kirsch successfully adapted to the modern, data-driven evolution of the game. He is widely respected for his professional conduct and “old school” mental toughness, traits that have allowed him to compete effectively against multiple generations of players. In 2026, he remains a regular at Seminole Hard Rock Hollywood and major Las Vegas stops, recognized as a true ambassador for the Florida poker community.
Play Style & Strategy
Kirsch is renowned for a “disciplined, high-IQ” play style. His greatest technical edge is his multi-table tournament (MTT) navigation, particularly his ability to manage short-stack situations in grueling championship structures. Strategically, he is a proponent of exploitative live play; while he understands modern GTO (Game Theory Optimal) mechanics, his 2024 and 2025 results show a deep mastery of reading opponent-specific tendencies. His approach emphasizes patience and range accuracy, making him one of the most difficult veterans to out-maneuver in high-pressure final table spots.
Social Media & Online Presence
Want to follow Richard as he continues his run through the 2026 circuit and chases his first WSOP bracelet? You can find his official profiles and updated stats here:
Derick Elomina is SoMuchPoker's Lead Content Writer and Interview Specialist, reporting live from WSOP bracelet events and Asia Pacific poker festivals such as TMT, APT, RDPT and APL Jeju, alongside player features and interviews for the site's Stories section. He discovered poker at 14 playing home games with friends, and by 21 he had entered the industry as a field reporter, starting as a hand reporter before building his current role on the tournament floor.
