Phil Ivey has been labeled as the greatest poker player on the globe by most of the top pros. Phil was born in Riverside, CA and moved to New Jersey before reaching the age of 1. His grandpa introduced him to one cent-ante 5-Card Stud poker. From that point on, he was addicted to poker and wanted to discover everything he possibly could about the game. He routinely told his parents that he wanted to be a professional poker player. He did not allow the negative comments from others annihilate his goal of becoming one of the best poker competitors in the world.
Phil started playing intently after getting a false ID by the name of Jerome. He honed his skills at the casinos in Atlantic City. The beginning few years for Phil were a learning experience and coming away with a win was not a common thing at the time. Phil became known at the 2000 WSOP where he made two final tables and came away with his 1st WSOP bracelet, in a $2, five hundred Pot-Limit Omaha event. At the last table he destroyed quite a few of the well 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 Las Vegas. Phil continues to participate in in "The Big Game" at the Bellagio with the best players in the world. Ivey credits his achievements to discipline and an immeasurable passion for the game of poker. Phil states that he’s learning every single day and is very humble about his success. Phil knows he makes blunders in each game of poker and constantly aspires to improve.
Although Ivey has come first in some big tournaments, he likes destroying cash games on a regular basis.