Phil Ivey has been branded as the best poker contender in the world by quite a few of the top-ranked professionals. He was born in Riverside, CA and relocated to New Jersey before reaching turning one. His grandpa taught him one cent-ante 5-Card Stud poker. From that point on, he was addicted to poker and wanted to discover everything he possibly could about the game. He routinely told his parents that he was planning on being a professional poker player. He did not allow the adverse feedback from others destroy his dream of being one of the best poker competitors in the world.
Phil started competing seriously after acquiring a false ID with the name of Jerome. He practiced his game at the casinos in Atlantic City. The first few years for him were a teaching opportunity and winning was not a common outcome at the time. He became known at the 2000 World Series of Poker when he made 2 final tables and came away with his first World Series of Poker bracelet, in a $2, 500 Pot-Limit Omaha event. At the closing table he defeated many of the better known professionals including "Amarillo Slim" Preston, David "Devilfish" Ulliot, and Phil Hellmuth, Jr.
Phil decided to take his game to the next level and moved out west to Sin City. Phil continues to play in "The Big Game" at the Bellagio with the best players in the world. Ivey credits his achievements to hard work and an eternal passion for the game of poker. Phil says that he is learning every day and is very humble about his achievements. He knows he makes mistakes every single game of poker and always aspires to improve.
Despite the fact that Ivey has come first in some big-time tournaments, he likes winning money games on a regular basis.