Phil Ivey has been referred to as the greatest poker contender in the world by quite a few of the top-ranked pros. Phil Ivey was born in Riverside, CA and relocated to NJ before his first birthday. His grandfather taught him penny-ante 5-Card Stud poker. From then on on, Phil was hooked on poker and wished to pickup whatever he possibly could about the game. He routinely would tell his grandparents that he wanted to be a professional poker player. Phil didn’t allow the negative feedback from other people kill his dream of becoming one of the greatest poker competitors on the planet.
Phil began playing seriously after getting a false ID by the name of Jerome. He sharpened his abilities at the casinos of Atlantic City. The initial number of years for Phil were a teaching opportunity and coming away with a win wasn’t a common thing at the time. He made his mark at the 2000 WSOP where he made 2 final tables and won his 1st World Series of Poker bracelet, in a two dollar, 500 Pot-Limit Omaha match. At the closing table he destroyed quite a few of the better known pros including but not limited to "Amarillo Slim" Preston, David "Devilfish" Ulliot, and Phil Hellmuth, Jr.
He made a decision to take his game to the next level and headed out west to Vegas. He continues to participate in in "The Big Game" at the Bellagio with the best players in the world. Phil credits his success to dedication and a continuing passion for poker. Phil says that he is learning every single day and is quite abashed about his achievements. Phil admits to making mistakes in each session of poker and constantly strives to get better.
Despite the fact that Ivey has won some big-time tournaments, he prefers destroying money games on a normal basis.