Phil Ivey has been referred to as the greatest poker competitor in the world by most of the top-ranked pros. Phil Ivey was born in Riverside, CA and moved to Jersey before reaching the age of 1. His grandpa taught Phil penny-ante Five-Card Stud poker. From that point on, Phil was hooked on poker and wished to discover whatever he possibly could about the game. Phil routinely told his grandparents that he wanted to be a professional poker player. He didn’t let the adverse feedback from other people kill his dream of being one of the best poker players on the planet.
He began playing seriously after getting a false ID with the name of Jerome. He sharpened his game at the casinos in Atlantic City. The first few years for Phil were a teaching experience and winning was not a normal thing at the time. Phil made his mark at the 2000 WSOP when he made 2 final tables and came away with his 1st World Series of Poker bracelet, in a $2, 500 Pot-Limit Omaha game. At the last table he destroyed a number of the better known professionals including but not limited to "Amarillo Slim" Preston, David "Devilfish" Ulliot, and Phil Hellmuth, Jr.
Phil made a decision to take his game to the successive level and moved out west to Las Vegas. He continues to participate in in "The Big Game" at the Bellagio with the best players in the world. Ivey credits his achievements to hard work and an undying passion for poker. He says that he’s learning every single day and is very humble about his achievements. Phil knows he makes mistakes in each session of poker and constantly strives to get better.
Despite the fact that Phil has won some big tournaments, he likes destroying money games on a regular basis.