Phil Ivey has been branded as the greatest poker contender on the globe by many of the top-ranked pros. Phil was born in Riverside, CA and relocated to New Jersey before reaching the age of 1. His papa taught Phil penny-ante 5-Card Stud poker. From then on on, he was addicted to poker and wanted to pickup everything he could about the game. He routinely told his parents that he wanted to be a professional poker player. Phil didn’t let the adverse feedback from other people kill his dream of being one of the best poker competitors in the world.
He started playing seriously after acquiring a false ID by the name of Jerome. He practiced his techniques at the casinos in Atlantic City. The beginning number of years for him were a learning experience and winning wasn’t a regular outcome at the time. He made his mark at the 2000 WSOP where he made two final tables and won his 1st WSOP bracelet, in a two dollar, five hundred Pot-Limit Omaha match. At the last table he destroyed quite a few 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 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 in the world. Ivey credits his success to hard work and an undying love for the game of poker. Phil says that he is learning every single day and is very humble about his achievements. Phil knows he makes mistakes every single game of poker and always aspires to improve.
Even though Ivey has come first in some large tournaments, he favors destroying cash games on a normal basis.