Phil Ivey has been branded as the number one poker competitor in the world by quite a few of the top-ranked professionals. Phil was born in Riverside, CA and relocated to Jersey before his first birthday. His grandfather taught Phil one cent-ante Five-Card Stud poker. From that point on, Phil was addicted to poker and wanted to learn every little thing he possibly could about poker. He would tell his elders that he wanted to be a professional poker player. He did not let the negative comments from others kill his dream of becoming one of the best poker players on the planet.
Phil began competing seriously after getting a fake ID by the name of Jerome. He practiced his skills at the casinos of Atlantic City. The beginning few years for him were a learning experience and coming away with a win wasn’t a regular outcome at the time. Phil made his mark at the 2000 World Series of Poker when 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 final table he destroyed quite a few of the better known professionals which includes "Amarillo Slim" Preston, David "Devilfish" Ulliot, and Phil Hellmuth, Jr.
He made a decision to take his game 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 greatest players on the planet. Phil credits his success to discipline and a continuing passion for the game of poker. Phil states that he is picking up skills every single day and is very humble about his achievements. He knows he makes blunders in each session of poker and constantly strives to get better.
Although Phil has won some big-time tournaments, he likes destroying cash games on a regular basis.