While Wales is renowned for its rugby legends and choral harmonies, it has also quietly produced a line-up of world-class poker players who’ve made their mark on the international stage. From high-stakes tournaments in Las Vegas to record-breaking moments in Europe and Asia, these five men have flown the Welsh flag proudly at the felt. Here’s a look at the top Welsh poker stars — and where they are now.
Roberto Romanello – The triple crown winner from Swansea
Hailing from Swansea, Roberto Romanello is arguably the most decorated Welsh poker player of all time. His rise to prominence came in the late 2000s, and he quickly earned a reputation for his analytical playstyle and magnetic personality at the table.
Romanello made poker history by securing titles in the World Poker Tour (WPT), the European Poker Tour (EPT), and the World Series of Poker (WSOP) — an achievement known as poker’s “Triple Crown”, a feat only a handful of players globally have accomplished.
Though he no longer plays full-time on the live circuit, Romanello remains connected to the game. He has taken on ambassador roles, contributes commentary during major events, and occasionally streams online tournaments. Outside of poker, he’s turned his focus toward business and family life — but he remains an icon for poker fans across Wales.
John Tabatabai – The prodigy who took on Europe
Though born in Iran, John Tabatabai was raised in Cardiff and represented Wales in one of poker’s most memorable showdowns. His breakthrough came in 2007 at the inaugural World Series of Poker Europe (WSOPE) Main Event, where he finished runner-up to an 18-year-old Annette Obrestad, who made history that night.
Despite narrowly missing the title, Tabatabai’s fearless and fluid style earned him respect across the poker community. Known for being a deep thinker and strategic innovator, he was tipped as one of the brightest young minds in the game.
Since stepping away from the tournament scene, John has found success in entrepreneurship, particularly in tech, blockchain, and financial consulting. While he’s traded poker chips for business ventures, his performance in 2007 remains one of the most iconic moments in modern Welsh poker history.
Dave Colclough – The late legend from Carmarthen
The name Dave Colclough commands respect in any discussion of UK poker history. Born in Carmarthen, Colclough — often referred to by his nickname “El Blondie” — was a fixture on the European poker scene during the early 2000s.
Voted European Poker Player of the Year in 2003, Colclough amassed more than $2.6 million in live tournament earnings. He was one of the earliest British players to regularly compete (and succeed) on the international stage, with consistent results in both Europe and the U.S., including multiple WSOP cashes.
Sadly, Colclough passed away in 2016 at the age of 52 after a battle with cancer. His legacy lives on, and he is still regarded as a trailblazer who helped pave the way for future generations of UK and Welsh poker professionals.
Danny Tang – The modern-day high roller from Wrexham
A new era of Welsh poker is being defined by Danny Tang, originally from Wrexham, who has emerged as one of the most formidable players on the global high-stakes scene.
Tang’s breakthrough came around 2018, and he’s since become a dominant force, particularly in Asia’s super high roller tournaments. As of 2023, his live tournament earnings exceed a staggering $28 million, placing him among the top 50 all-time money earners in poker worldwide.
He has won multiple titles, including a WSOP bracelet, and is known for his calm demeanor and fearless approach to high-pressure situations. Tang continues to live and travel internationally, representing both Wales and Hong Kong, where he’s based, but remains proud of his Wrexham roots.
Matthew Stevens – From snooker star to poker champion
Best known for his success in the world of snooker, Matthew Stevens surprised many when he took down the UK’s richest poker tournament in 2004, claiming a massive £260,000 top prize. Originally from Carmarthen, Stevens faced off against sports stars including darts legend Phil Taylor and tennis champion Yevgeny Kafelnikov in the celebrity-laden event.
Though poker never became his full-time career, Stevens demonstrated serious talent and a coolness under pressure that translated beautifully from the snooker table to the poker felt. He remains an example of how transferable skills — patience, focus, and mental stamina — can bridge different competitive worlds.
