Phil Ivey has been branded as the greatest poker competitor on the planet by many of the top-ranked professionals. He was born in Riverside, CA and relocated to NJ before reaching turning 1. His papa taught Phil penny-ante 5-Card Stud poker. From then on on, Phil was hooked on poker and wanted to discover whatever he possibly could about the game. Phil routinely told his grandparents that he was going to be a professional poker player. Phil did not permit the negative comments from others annihilate his goal of becoming one of the best poker players in the world.
He began playing seriously after getting a fake ID with the name of Jerome. He practiced his skills at the poker rooms in Atlantic City. The first few years for Phil were a learning experience and coming away with a win was not a common outcome at the time. Phil became known at the 2000 WSOP where he made 2 final tables and came away with his 1st WSOP bracelet, in a two dollar, five hundred Pot-Limit Omaha event. At the closing table he destroyed a number of the well known professionals including "Amarillo Slim" Preston, David "Devilfish" Ulliot, and Phil Hellmuth, Jr.
Phil made a decision to take his skills to the next level and moved out west to Vegas. Phil continues to participate in in "The Big Game" at the Bellagio with the greatest players in the world. Phil credits his achievements to dedication and an undying love for the game of poker. Phil says that he is picking up skills every day and is incredibly abashed about his success. He knows he makes errors in each game of poker and always strives to improve.
Although Ivey has won some large tournaments, he likes winning cash games on a regular basis.