Phil Ivey has been branded as the number one poker competitor in the world by quite a few of the top-ranked pros. Phil Ivey was born in Riverside, CA and relocated to New Jersey before reaching turning 1. His grandfather introduced him to one cent-ante 5-Card Stud poker. From that point on, he was addicted to poker and wanted to learn whatever he possibly could about poker. He routinely told his grandparents that he wanted to be a professional poker player. He did not let the detrimental comments from other people kill his goal of becoming one of the best poker players in the world.
He started playing seriously after getting a false ID by the name of Jerome. He honed his skills at the casinos of Atlantic City. The first few years for Phil were a learning experience and coming away with a win was not a common thing at the time. Phil made his mark at the 2000 World Series of Poker where he made 2 final tables and came away with his 1st WSOP bracelet, in a $2, 500 Pot-Limit Omaha event. At the closing table he destroyed a number of the better known pros which includes "Amarillo Slim" Preston, David "Devilfish" Ulliot, and Phil Hellmuth, Jr.
Phil made a decision to take his game to the next level and headed out west to Vegas. Phil continues to compete in in "The Big Game" at the Bellagio with the greatest players in the world. Ivey credits his achievements to hard work and an undying love for the game of poker. Phil states that he’s picking up skills every single day and is incredibly abashed about his accomplishments. He admits to making mistakes in each game of poker and always aspires to get better.
Despite the fact that Ivey has won some large tournaments, he likes winning cash games on a regular basis.