Phil Ivey has been labeled as the number one poker player in the world by quite a few of the top-ranked professionals. Phil was born in Riverside, CA and moved to New Jersey before reaching turning one. His grandfather taught Phil penny-ante Five-Card Stud poker. From that point on, he was hooked on poker and wished to learn whatever he could about poker. Phil routinely told his grandparents that he was planning on being a professional poker player. Phil did not let the negative comments from others kill his ambition of being one of the best poker players in the world.
Phil started competing intently after getting a false ID by the name of Jerome. He honed his abilities at the poker rooms in Atlantic City. The beginning number of years for Phil were a teaching period and winning was not a regular thing at the time. He became known at the 2000 World Series of Poker when he made two 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 a number of the better known professionals including but not limited to "Amarillo Slim" Preston, David "Devilfish" Ulliot, and Phil Hellmuth, Jr.
Phil decided to take his game to the next level and headed out west to Vegas. He continues to participate in in "The Big Game" at the Bellagio with the greatest players in the world. Ivey credits his achievements to dedication and a continuing love for poker. Phil says that he is learning every single day and is incredibly abashed about his success. He admits to making errors every single session of poker and always strives to improve.
Although Ivey has come first in some large tournaments, he likes destroying cash games on a normal basis.