Phil Ivey has been labeled as the best poker contender on the planet by many of the top-ranked pros. Phil was born in Riverside, CA and relocated to NJ before reaching the age of 1. His grandpa introduced him to one cent-ante 5-Card Stud poker. From that point on, he was hooked on poker and wished to learn everything he could about the game. Phil routinely would tell his grandparents that he wanted to be a professional poker player. He did not let the adverse comments from others annihilate his ambition of being one of the greatest poker competitors in the world.
Phil started playing seriously after getting a false ID by the name of Jerome. He honed his skills at the casinos in Atlantic City. The initial number of years for him were a learning experience and winning was not a normal outcome at the time. Phil became known at the 2000 WSOP where he made two final tables and came away with his 1st World Series of Poker bracelet, in a $2, 500 Pot-Limit Omaha match. At the final table he defeated a number of the well known professionals including but not limited to "Amarillo Slim" Preston, David "Devilfish" Ulliot, and Phil Hellmuth, Jr.
He decided to take his skills to the next level and moved out west to Sin City. Phil continues to compete in in "The Big Game" at the Bellagio with the best players on the planet. Phil credits his success to dedication and a continuing love for poker. Phil says that he’s learning every single day and is very humble about his achievements. Phil knows he makes errors every single game of poker and always aspires to get better.
Although Ivey has come first in some big tournaments, he favors winning cash games on a regular basis.