Phil Ivey has been branded as the greatest poker competitor on the planet by many of the top-ranked pros. Phil Ivey was born in Riverside, CA and relocated to Jersey before reaching the age of one. His grandpa taught Phil penny-ante 5-Card Stud poker. From then on on, Phil was hooked on poker and wanted to discover everything he possibly could about poker. Phil would tell his elders that he wanted to be a professional poker player. Phil did not permit the adverse feedback from others kill his goal of being one of the greatest poker players in the world.
He began competing seriously after getting a false ID by the name of Jerome. He sharpened his skills at the poker rooms of Atlantic City. The first few years for Phil were a learning period and coming away with a win was not a common outcome at the time. He became known at the 2000 World Series of Poker when he made two final tables and won his first World Series of Poker bracelet, in a $2, 500 Pot-Limit Omaha game. At the final table he destroyed a number of the well known professionals which includes "Amarillo Slim" Preston, David "Devilfish" Ulliot, and Phil Hellmuth, Jr.
He decided to take his game to the next level and headed out west to Las Vegas. He continues to participate in in "The Big Game" at the Bellagio with the best players in the world. Phil credits his achievements to dedication and an undying love for the game of poker. He says that he’s picking up skills every day and is incredibly abashed about his accomplishments. He admits to making mistakes every single session of poker and constantly strives to improve.
Despite the fact that Phil has come first in some big tournaments, he prefers winning cash games on a regular basis.