Phil Ivey has been labeled as the number one poker player on the globe by many of the top-ranked pros. Phil was born in Riverside, CA and moved to Jersey before his first birthday. His grandpa taught Phil penny-ante 5-Card Stud poker. From that point on, he was addicted to poker and wanted to learn whatever he could about the game. Phil routinely told his parents that he wanted to be a professional poker player. He did not allow the negative feedback from other people kill his goal of being one of the greatest poker competitors in the world.
Phil started playing seriously after getting a fake ID with the name of Jerome. He sharpened his skills at the casinos in Atlantic City. The first few years for Phil were a teaching experience and coming away with a win wasn’t a normal outcome at the time. Phil made his mark at the 2000 World Series of Poker where he made two final tables and won his 1st WSOP bracelet, in a two dollar, five hundred Pot-Limit Omaha game. At the final table he defeated many of the better known professionals which includes "Amarillo Slim" Preston, David "Devilfish" Ulliot, and Phil Hellmuth, Jr.
Phil decided to take his skills to the successive level and headed out west to Las Vegas. He continues to participate in in "The Big Game" at the Bellagio with the best players on the planet. Ivey credits his achievements to dedication and a continuing passion for the game of poker. Phil states that he is picking up skills every single day and is very humble about his achievements. Phil admits to making blunders every single session of poker and always strives to improve.
Despite the fact that Phil has come first in some big tournaments, he favors winning cash games on a regular basis.