Phil Ivey has been referred to as the best poker competitor in the world by quite a few of the top professionals. He was born in Riverside, CA and relocated to New Jersey before reaching the age of 1. His papa taught Phil penny-ante Five-Card Stud poker. From that point on, Phil was hooked on poker and wanted to pickup anything he could about poker. Phil would tell his grandparents that he was planning on being a professional poker player. Phil did not allow the negative feedback from other people kill his ambition of becoming one of the strongest poker players on the planet.
He began playing intently after acquiring a fake ID with the name of Jerome. He practiced his techniques at the poker rooms in Atlantic City. The first few years for Phil were a learning experience and coming away with a win was not a normal thing at the time. Phil made his mark at the 2000 World Series of Poker where he achieved two final tables and came away with his first World Series of Poker bracelet, in a $2, 500 Pot-Limit Omaha game. At the last table he destroyed quite a few of the well known professionals which includes "Amarillo Slim" Preston, David "Devilfish" Ulliot, and Phil Hellmuth, Jr.
He made a decision to take his skills to the next level and headed out west to Vegas. Phil continues to play in "The Big Game" at the Bellagio with the greatest players in the world. Ivey credits his success to dedication and a continuing love for the game of poker. Phil says that he’s learning every day and is quite humble about his success. Phil knows he makes blunders in each game of poker and always strives to get better.
Even though Phil has won some big tournaments, he favors winning cash games on a regular basis.
April 15th, 2013
Everett
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