Phil Ivey has been labeled as the number one poker competitor on the globe by many of the top-ranked professionals. He was born in Riverside, CA and relocated to New Jersey before reaching the age of 1. His papa taught him one cent-ante 5-Card Stud poker. From that point on, Phil was hooked on poker and wanted to discover every little thing he could about poker. Phil routinely told his grandparents that he wanted to be a professional poker player. Phil didn’t allow the adverse feedback from others annihilate his goal of becoming one of the best poker players in the world.
He started competing intently after acquiring a fake ID with the name of Jerome. He practiced his abilities at the casinos of Atlantic City. The first number of years for him were a learning opportunity and coming away with a win wasn’t a normal thing at the time. He made his mark at the 2000 WSOP when he achieved two final tables and won his 1st WSOP bracelet, in a two dollar, five hundred Pot-Limit Omaha match. At the last 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 decided to take his game to the next level and moved out west to Vegas. Phil continues to compete in in "The Big Game" at the Bellagio with the best players in the world. Phil credits his achievements to dedication and an immeasurable love for poker. He states that he is learning every single day and is very abashed about his achievements. He admits to making errors every single game of poker and constantly aspires to get better.
Although Phil has won some large tournaments, he favors destroying money games on a regular basis.