Phil Ivey has been referred to as the number one poker competitor on the globe by many of the top-ranked professionals. He was born in Riverside, CA and moved to New Jersey before reaching the age of 1. His grandpa taught him one cent-ante Five-Card Stud poker. From then on on, Phil was addicted to poker and wanted to learn every little thing he could about the game. He would tell his parents that he was going to be a professional poker player. He did not let the adverse feedback from others kill his goal of being one of the best poker players on the planet.
He began competing intently after acquiring a false ID by the name of Jerome. He practiced his game at the casinos 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 WSOP when he achieved two final tables and won his 1st WSOP bracelet, in a two dollar, 500 Pot-Limit Omaha game. At the last table he defeated many of the better known professionals which includes "Amarillo Slim" Preston, David "Devilfish" Ulliot, and Phil Hellmuth, Jr.
He made a decision to take his game to the next level and moved out west to Vegas. Phil continues to play in "The Big Game" at the Bellagio with the greatest players in the world. Phil credits his achievements to dedication and a continuing love for the game of poker. He says that he is learning every day and is quite abashed about his success. He admits to making errors every single game of poker and always strives to get better.
Even though Ivey has won some big-time tournaments, he likes winning cash games on a regular basis.
