Phil Ivey has been referred to as the best poker competitor in the world by most of the top-ranked professionals. He was born in Riverside, CA and moved to NJ before his first birthday. His grandfather showed him to one cent-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 the game. He routinely told his elders that he wanted to be a professional poker player. He did not allow the detrimental feedback from others kill his goal of becoming one of the greatest poker competitors in the world.
He started competing intently after acquiring a false ID with the name of Jerome. He practiced his game at the poker rooms in Atlantic City. The first few years for him were a teaching experience and winning was not a common outcome at the time. He made his mark at the 2000 WSOP when he achieved 2 final tables and came away with his first World Series of Poker bracelet, in a $2, 500 Pot-Limit Omaha game. At the closing table he destroyed many of the better 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 moved out west to Vegas. Phil continues to play in "The Big Game" at the Bellagio with the greatest players on the planet. Phil credits his success to hard work and an immeasurable love for poker. He states that he is picking up skills every single day and is very abashed about his success. Phil admits to making mistakes in each game of poker and always aspires to get better.
Even though Ivey has come first in some big tournaments, he favors destroying cash games on a regular basis.
