Phil Ivey has been referred to as the number one poker competitor in the world by many of the top pros. Phil was born in Riverside, CA and relocated to Jersey before reaching the age of 1. His grandpa taught Phil penny-ante 5-Card Stud poker. From then on on, Phil was addicted to poker and wished to discover everything he possibly could about the game. Phil routinely would tell his grandparents that he wanted to be a professional poker player. Phil didn’t let the adverse comments from other people annihilate his goal of becoming one of the greatest poker players in the world.
He began playing seriously after getting a false ID by the name of Jerome. He honed his game at the poker rooms of Atlantic City. The beginning few years for him were a teaching experience and coming away with a win was not a regular outcome at the time. Phil made his mark at the 2000 World Series of Poker where he made two final tables and came away with his first World Series of Poker bracelet, in a two dollar, 500 Pot-Limit Omaha game. At the last table he destroyed quite a few 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 game to the next level and moved out west to Las Vegas. He continues to compete in in "The Big Game" at the Bellagio with the best players in the world. Phil credits his success to hard work and an undying love for the game of poker. Phil states that he is picking up skills every day and is very humble about his achievements. He admits to making errors in each game of poker and constantly aspires to get better.
Even though Phil has won some big tournaments, he likes destroying money games on a normal basis.