Andy Black

Andy Black, better known as “The Monk,” is an Irish professional poker player from Belfast, Northern Ireland, who currently resides in Dublin. With over $5.21 million in total live tournament earnings, he holds the top spot on Ireland’s All-Time Money List. His best live cash, $1,750,000, came from a 5th-place finish at the 36th WSOP in Las Vegas in July 2005. A former Full Tilt Poker professional player, he held a role considered a great honor during the poker boom era.

Andy Black: Early Life

Andy Black, born in 1965 in Belfast, grew up during challenging times but found an early love for poker through his mom, a skilled player. While studying law at Trinity College in Dublin, he discovered he was more passionate about cards than courtrooms. By the mid-80s, Andy was a regular in local poker games, sharpening his skills and building his confidence.

Eventually, he decided to leave behind a career in law to follow his true passion. That bold choice set him on a path of self-discovery and the start of his poker journey.

Andy Black: Live Tournament Participation

Andy Black recorded his first live cash in May 1997. He placed 14th in the $10,000 No Limit Hold’em World Championship at the 28th WSOP in Las Vegas. He earned $29,680 for his finish.

In July 2005, he achieved his best live cash in the $10,000 NLH World Championship Event. He earned $1,750,000 by finishing 5th at the 36th WSOP in Las Vegas.

In January 2007, he then placed 3rd in the A$10,500 Main Event at the Aussie Millions Poker Championship in Melbourne. There, he earned $556,695.

In July 2007, Black then finished 5th in the $5,000 World Championship No Limit Deuce to Seven Draw event. He earned $118,101 from his participation at the 38th WSOP in Las Vegas. 

In February 2008, Black then participated in the $60,000 NLH event at the PartyPoker.com Premier League Poker II in London. He won and claimed 1st place earning $250,000.

In July 2010, Black won the $20,000 Episode 4 event at The Poker Lounge in Cardiff, securing 1st place and earning $120,000.

In a recent appearance, in November 2024, Black participated in the €300 No Limit Hold’em Main Event at the Irish Poker Tour—Dublin Winter Festival, finishing 66th and earning $738.