Phil Ivey has been labeled as the greatest poker contender in the world by many of the top pros. Phil Ivey was born in Riverside, CA and moved to New Jersey before his first birthday. His papa taught him penny-ante 5-Card Stud poker. From that point on, he was hooked on poker and wanted to learn every little thing he could about the game. Phil would tell his parents that he wanted to be a professional poker player. He didn’t allow the detrimental comments from others kill his dream of being one of the best poker players on the planet.
Phil started playing intently after acquiring a fake ID by the name of Jerome. He sharpened his techniques at the casinos in Atlantic City. The beginning few years for him were a learning opportunity and coming away with a win wasn’t a regular outcome at the time. He made his mark at the 2000 World Series of Poker where he achieved 2 final tables and came away with his 1st World Series of Poker bracelet, in a two dollar, five hundred Pot-Limit Omaha match. At the closing table he destroyed a number of the well known professionals including "Amarillo Slim" Preston, David "Devilfish" Ulliot, and Phil Hellmuth, Jr.
Phil made a decision to take his game to the next level and moved out west to Vegas. He continues to compete in in "The Big Game" at the Bellagio with the greatest players in the world. Ivey credits his success to dedication and an eternal passion for poker. Phil states that he’s learning every day and is very humble about his accomplishments. He knows he makes mistakes in each session of poker and constantly aspires to improve.
Although Ivey has won some large tournaments, he favors destroying cash games on a regular basis.