Phil Ivey has been labeled as the best poker player on the planet by quite a few of the top-ranked professionals. Phil was born in Riverside, CA and moved to New Jersey before reaching turning one. His grandfather taught Phil one cent-ante Five-Card Stud poker. From that point on, he was addicted to poker and wished to learn every little thing he possibly could about poker. He routinely would tell his parents that he was going to be a professional poker player. He didn’t let the negative comments from others kill his dream of becoming one of the best poker competitors on the planet.
Phil began competing seriously after acquiring a fake ID by the name of Jerome. He honed his abilities at the poker rooms of Atlantic City. The first few years for him were a teaching experience and coming away with a win was not a normal thing at the time. He made his mark at the 2000 World Series of Poker where he made 2 final tables and came away with his first WSOP bracelet, in a $2, 500 Pot-Limit Omaha match. At the closing table he defeated a number of the well known pros including "Amarillo Slim" Preston, David "Devilfish" Ulliot, and Phil Hellmuth, Jr.
Phil decided to take his skills to the successive level and moved out west to Sin City. He continues to play in "The Big Game" at the Bellagio with the greatest players in the world. Phil credits his success to dedication and an undying love for the game of poker. Phil states that he is learning every day and is incredibly abashed about his achievements. He admits to making blunders every single game of poker and constantly strives to get better.
Despite the fact that Ivey has won some large tournaments, he prefers winning cash games on a normal basis.