Phil Ivey has been labeled as the greatest poker competitor in the world by many of the top-ranked pros. Phil was born in Riverside, CA and relocated to Jersey before his first birthday. His grandfather taught Phil penny-ante Five-Card Stud poker. From that point on, he was hooked on poker and wished to learn every little thing he possibly could about poker. He would tell his grandparents that he was going to be a professional poker player. Phil didn’t let the negative comments from other people destroy his goal of being one of the best poker competitors in the world.
Phil started competing intently after acquiring a fake ID by the name of Jerome. He sharpened his game at the casinos of Atlantic City. The initial number of years for Phil were a teaching period and winning was not a normal outcome at the time. Phil became known at the 2000 WSOP where he made two final tables and came away with his 1st WSOP bracelet, in a two dollar, 500 Pot-Limit Omaha game. At the final table he defeated a number of the well known pros including but not limited to "Amarillo Slim" Preston, David "Devilfish" Ulliot, and Phil Hellmuth, Jr.
He made a decision to take his skills to the next level and moved out west to Sin City. He continues to play in "The Big Game" at the Bellagio with the best players in the world. Phil credits his achievements to dedication and an immeasurable love for the game of poker. Phil says that he is learning every day and is very humble about his success. Phil admits to making blunders every single game of poker and always aspires to improve.
Despite the fact that Ivey has come first in some large tournaments, he likes winning cash games on a regular basis.
