The Truth Behind an Age-Old Saying
As Valentine’s Day approaches, many reflect on love, luck, and the old saying: “Lucky at cards, unlucky in love.” But is there any truth to this belief? Does winning at the poker table mean romance is destined to fail? CasinoAus takes a closer look at this superstition and uncovers the reality behind it.
The phrase, believed to have originated in the 17th century, suggests that success in games of chance may lead to misfortune in love. The idea is based on the assumption that life must maintain balance—if someone excels in one area, they must suffer in another. However, research and real-life examples prove this superstition is unfounded.
Myth vs Reality: What Studies Reveal
Despite its popularity, there is no evidence that success in gambling leads to relationship difficulties. In fact, numerous studies suggest that being a skilled poker player may even contribute to a stable love life:
- A study in the Journal of Gambling Studies found that professional poker players tend to have high levels of self-discipline and emotional control, traits that support long-term relationship stability.
- A 2023 survey reported that 56% of professional poker players are in committed relationships, proving that success in poker does not come at the expense of love.
- A University of Nottingham (2020) study on gambling behaviours found no correlation between gambling success and relationship dissatisfaction.
These findings indicate that romantic success and poker skills can coexist, with many players excelling in both areas.
Why Does the Myth Persist?
Despite the evidence against it, this belief continues for several reasons:
- Time and Priorities – Some professional gamblers dedicate a significant amount of time to their craft, leaving less room for personal relationships. However, this is a lifestyle choice rather than a universal rule.
- Risk-Taking Behaviour – Gamblers often make bold decisions, which may not always translate well into stable relationships. However, successful poker players also demonstrate patience and strategy, qualities that are beneficial in love.
- Cultural Influence – In European folklore, excessive fortune in one aspect of life was thought to cause misfortune in another. These superstitions have lingered, despite lacking any factual basis.
Poker Pros Who Have It All
To further disprove the myth, here are some professional poker players who have found both love and success in their careers:
- Jennifer Tilly – The actress and poker star won a World Series of Poker (WSOP) bracelet in 2005. She has been in a committed relationship with fellow poker pro Phil Laak since 2004.
- Victoria Coren Mitchell – As the first woman to win a European Poker Tour event, she has amassed over $2.5 million in winnings and is happily married to comedian David Mitchell.
- Daniel Negreanu – A six-time WSOP bracelet winner, with over $50 million in tournament earnings, he tied the knot with Amanda Leatherman in 2019, proving that poker and love are a winning combination.
Breaking the Superstition: Love and Luck Can Coexist
This Valentine’s Day, there’s no reason to let old myths dictate personal or professional choices. Whether excelling at poker or building a meaningful relationship, success in one does not mean failure in the other. Luck is not limited to just one aspect of life it can extend to both love and the poker table.
