Phil Ivey has been referred to as the best poker contender on the globe by most of the top-ranked pros. He was born in Riverside, CA and moved to NJ before his first birthday. His papa taught Phil penny-ante 5-Card Stud poker. From that point on, Phil was addicted to poker and wished to pickup anything he could about the game. Phil would tell his grandparents that he wanted to be a professional poker player. He didn’t allow the adverse comments from other people destroy his goal of being one of the best poker competitors on the planet.
Phil began competing intently after getting a fake ID with the name of Jerome. He honed his techniques at the poker rooms in Atlantic City. The beginning few years for him were a learning opportunity and winning wasn’t a regular thing at the time. He made his mark at the 2000 World Series of Poker where he made two final tables and won his 1st World Series of Poker bracelet, in a two dollar, 500 Pot-Limit Omaha game. At the closing table he defeated a number of the better known professionals including "Amarillo Slim" Preston, David "Devilfish" Ulliot, and Phil Hellmuth, Jr.
He made a decision to take his game to the next level and headed out west to Vegas. He continues to compete in in "The Big Game" at the Bellagio with the best players in the world. Phil credits his achievements to discipline and an undying love for the game of poker. Phil says that he is learning every single day and is very humble about his success. Phil admits to making mistakes every single game of poker and constantly aspires to get better.
Although Ivey has come first in some large tournaments, he likes destroying cash games on a regular basis.