Phil Ivey has been referred to as the best poker competitor on the planet by many of the top professionals. He was born in Riverside, CA and moved to NJ before reaching the age of 1. His grandpa taught him one cent-ante 5-Card Stud poker. From that point on, Phil was addicted to poker and wished to learn whatever he could about the game. He routinely would tell his parents that he was planning on being a professional poker player. He didn’t permit the adverse feedback from other people kill his goal of becoming one of the strongest poker competitors in the world.
He began playing seriously after getting a false ID with the name of Jerome. He honed his game at the poker rooms of Atlantic City. The beginning number of years for Phil were a teaching experience and winning was not a regular thing at the time. Phil became known at the 2000 World Series of Poker where he achieved 2 final tables and came away with his first World Series of Poker bracelet, in a two dollar, five hundred Pot-Limit Omaha match. At the closing table he defeated quite a few of the better known pros including but not limited to "Amarillo Slim" Preston, David "Devilfish" Ulliot, and Phil Hellmuth, Jr.
Phil made a decision to take his skills to the next level and headed out west to Las Vegas. Phil continues to play in "The Big Game" at the Bellagio with the greatest players on the planet. Phil credits his achievements to hard work and an eternal passion for the game of poker. Phil says that he’s picking up skills every day and is incredibly humble about his achievements. Phil admits to making mistakes every single session of poker and always aspires to get better.
Although Ivey has come first in some big tournaments, he prefers destroying cash games on a regular basis.