There are a number of excellent internet players who make significant amounts of money,playing IN CASH GAMES. You just wrote that it takes "more than a little luck" (THats called skill).

I don't think professional poker players or other pro gamblers are all that concerned about your admiration, they just want you at the table with your money.

Come to my little burg south of Chicago, and I will introduce you to several some who make 6+ figures. (Cards, Pool, sports). I met a couple in Vegas last time, and turn on the TV and see several almost any night of the week.

The reason you may not meet any is you play in $30 tournaments, and draw your experiences there.

Believe what you want, most the issue has been studied by the IRS, several universities, the Courts, and other groups in this country and around the world.

There are many professional gamblers, not as many as say lawyers, but plenty.