Phil Ivey has been branded as the greatest poker player on the planet by many of the top-ranked pros. Phil was born in Riverside, CA and relocated to NJ before his first birthday. His papa introduced him to one cent-ante 5-Card Stud poker. From that point on, Phil was hooked on poker and wished to discover every little thing he could about the game. Phil routinely told his parents that he wanted to be a professional poker player. Phil didn’t allow the detrimental comments from others kill his goal of being one of the best poker competitors in the world.
Phil started playing intently after acquiring a fake ID by the name of Jerome. He practiced his game at the casinos in Atlantic City. The beginning number of years for him were a learning period and coming away with a win wasn’t a regular thing at the time. He made his mark at the 2000 World Series of Poker when he made 2 final tables and won his 1st World Series of Poker bracelet, in a $2, five hundred Pot-Limit Omaha match. At the closing table he destroyed many of the better known pros including "Amarillo Slim" Preston, David "Devilfish" Ulliot, and Phil Hellmuth, Jr.
Phil made a decision to take his game to the next level and headed out west to Las Vegas. He continues to compete in in "The Big Game" at the Bellagio with the best players in the world. Phil credits his achievements to dedication and a continuing love for the game of poker. Phil states that he’s learning every day and is quite humble about his success. Phil admits to making mistakes in each session of poker and always aspires to get better.
Despite the fact that Ivey has come first in some large tournaments, he likes winning money games on a regular basis.