Phil Ivey has been branded as the greatest poker player in the world by most of the top professionals. Phil was born in Riverside, CA and relocated to Jersey before reaching the age of 1. His grandpa taught him penny-ante Five-Card Stud poker. From that point on, Phil was addicted to poker and wanted to discover every little thing he possibly could about poker. He routinely would tell his elders that he was going to be a professional poker player. Phil did not permit the negative comments from others kill his dream of being one of the strongest poker competitors on the planet.
He began playing intently after acquiring a fake ID by the name of Jerome. He sharpened his techniques at the casinos in Atlantic City. The beginning few years for Phil were a teaching opportunity and winning wasn’t a common thing at the time. He made his mark at the 2000 WSOP when he made two final tables and came away with his 1st World Series of Poker bracelet, in a $2, 500 Pot-Limit Omaha match. At the closing table he defeated many of the well known professionals including but not limited to "Amarillo Slim" Preston, David "Devilfish" Ulliot, and Phil Hellmuth, Jr.
Phil decided 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 greatest players in the world. Ivey credits his success to discipline and an undying love for the game of poker. Phil states that he’s picking up skills every single day and is very abashed about his accomplishments. Phil admits to making blunders every single session of poker and constantly strives to improve.
Even though Phil has won some big tournaments, he favors destroying cash games on a regular basis.