Phil Ivey has been referred to as the greatest poker contender in the world by many of the top-ranked professionals. Phil was born in Riverside, CA and moved to New Jersey before reaching turning 1. His grandfather taught Phil one cent-ante 5-Card Stud poker. From that point on, Phil was addicted to poker and wished to learn anything he could about poker. Phil routinely told his elders that he was going to be a professional poker player. Phil didn’t let the adverse comments from other people kill his goal of becoming one of the greatest poker players on the planet.
He started playing intently after getting a false ID by the name of Jerome. He sharpened his techniques at the casinos of Atlantic City. The initial few years for him were a learning experience and coming away with a win was not a regular outcome at the time. Phil made his mark at the 2000 World Series of Poker when he made 2 final tables and won his first WSOP bracelet, in a two dollar, 500 Pot-Limit Omaha event. At the closing table he defeated a number of the better known pros which includes "Amarillo Slim" Preston, David "Devilfish" Ulliot, and Phil Hellmuth, Jr.
He made a decision to take his skills to the next level and headed out west to Las Vegas. He continues to play 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 the game of poker. Phil says that he is learning every day and is quite abashed about his accomplishments. Phil knows he makes mistakes in each game of poker and always strives to improve.
Despite the fact that Ivey has come first in some big tournaments, he favors destroying cash games on a regular basis.