Phil Ivey has been labeled as the best poker competitor on the planet by many of the top professionals. He was born in Riverside, CA and relocated to Jersey before his first birthday. His grandfather taught him one cent-ante 5-Card Stud poker. From that point on, Phil was addicted to poker and wanted to pickup whatever he possibly could about poker. Phil routinely told his elders that he was planning on being a professional poker player. He didn’t allow the negative comments from others kill his dream of becoming one of the greatest poker competitors on the planet.
He began competing seriously after acquiring a false ID with the name of Jerome. He honed his abilities at the casinos in Atlantic City. The beginning number of years for Phil were a learning opportunity and winning wasn’t a regular thing at the time. He became known at the 2000 WSOP where he made 2 final tables and came away with his 1st World Series of Poker bracelet, in a $2, 500 Pot-Limit Omaha match. At the last table he defeated many of the well known pros including but not limited to "Amarillo Slim" Preston, David "Devilfish" Ulliot, and Phil Hellmuth, Jr.
Phil decided to take his game to the next level and headed out west to Las Vegas. He continues to play in "The Big Game" at the Bellagio with the greatest players on the planet. Ivey credits his achievements to hard work and an eternal passion for poker. Phil states that he’s learning every day and is very humble about his success. He admits to making mistakes every single game of poker and constantly strives to improve.
Despite the fact that Ivey has come first in some big-time tournaments, he prefers winning money games on a regular basis.