The poker pro reflects on stepping away from the spotlight to focus on fatherhood and personal growth
Sam Stein, one of poker’s most successful players of the past decade, has been noticeably absent from the live tournament scene since 2016. A regular on the circuit who first turned heads in 2010 with over $900,000 in live tournament winnings, Stein gradually faded from the public eye — and now, in a candid interview with PokerNews, he’s opening up about why.
“About two years ago, I moved to Cincinnati to be near my wife Erin’s family since we had a son, Ethan,” Stein shared.
“Our son turns two next month, and that’s pretty much what I’ve been up to lately.”
While Stein hasn’t given up poker entirely, his grind has shifted from the live felt to the virtual tables. “I still play a good amount of poker online, especially during this quarantine,” he said, explaining that online play gives him the flexibility to be present at home — a priority that’s taken center stage since becoming a dad.
A Life Beyond the Cards
“I’m one of those people whose life dream was to have kids and a family, so I don’t want to miss a milestone,” said Stein.
“It’s brought me more joy than I could have ever imagined.”
His journey hasn’t been without hardship. Stein also shared that he lost his father last year, a moment that further reinforced his desire to focus on family and personal well-being.
The Freedom Poker Provides
Despite his shift away from the spotlight, Stein remains grateful for the freedom poker has afforded him — the ability to step back when needed, and the opportunity to return on his own terms. For now, he’s content keeping his skills sharp online, enjoying the balance he’s found between the game he loves and the life he’s building.
