Phil Ivey has been branded as the number one poker competitor on the globe by many of the top-ranked pros. Phil was born in Riverside, CA and relocated to New Jersey before reaching the age of one. His papa taught him penny-ante 5-Card Stud poker. From that point on, he was addicted to poker and wanted to learn whatever he could about poker. He routinely told his elders that he wanted to be a professional poker player. Phil didn’t allow the negative feedback from other people destroy his dream of becoming one of the greatest poker competitors in the world.
He began playing seriously after acquiring a false ID by the name of Jerome. He practiced his abilities at the casinos in Atlantic City. The first few years for him were a teaching opportunity and coming away with a win was not a regular outcome at the time. Phil became known at the 2000 WSOP where he made 2 final tables and came away with his first WSOP bracelet, in a $2, 500 Pot-Limit Omaha event. At the final table he defeated many of the well known professionals including but not limited to "Amarillo Slim" Preston, David "Devilfish" Ulliot, and Phil Hellmuth, Jr.
He made a decision to take his skills to the successive level and headed out west to Sin City. He continues to compete in in "The Big Game" at the Bellagio with the best players on the planet. Ivey credits his success to dedication and an undying love for the game of poker. He says that he is learning every single day and is incredibly humble about his success. Phil admits to making mistakes in each game of poker and always strives to improve.
Despite the fact that Phil has won some big tournaments, he prefers winning money games on a regular basis.