Phil Ivey has been referred to as the best poker player in the world by many of the top pros. Phil was born in Riverside, CA and relocated to Jersey before his first birthday. His grandfather taught him penny-ante Five-Card Stud poker. From that point on, he was addicted to poker and wanted to learn everything he possibly could about the game. He would tell his grandparents that he was planning on being a professional poker player. Phil didn’t allow the adverse comments from others annihilate his dream of becoming one of the best poker players on the planet.
Phil started playing intently after acquiring a false ID with the name of Jerome. He sharpened his techniques at the poker rooms of Atlantic City. The first number of years for Phil were a learning experience and coming away with a win wasn’t a regular outcome at the time. Phil made his mark at the 2000 World Series of Poker where he achieved 2 final tables and won his 1st World Series of Poker bracelet, in a two dollar, five hundred Pot-Limit Omaha match. At the final table he defeated a number of the well known professionals which includes "Amarillo Slim" Preston, David "Devilfish" Ulliot, and Phil Hellmuth, Jr.
Phil decided to take his skills to the next level and headed out west to Las Vegas. He continues to play in "The Big Game" at the Bellagio with the best players on the planet. Phil credits his achievements to hard work and an undying passion for the game of poker. He states that he’s picking up skills every day and is very humble about his success. He knows he makes blunders every single game of poker and constantly aspires to improve.
Even though Phil has come first in some big tournaments, he favors destroying cash games on a regular basis.