Phil Ivey has been labeled as the greatest poker competitor in the world by many of the top professionals. He was born in Riverside, CA and relocated to NJ before his first birthday. His grandfather taught him one cent-ante 5-Card Stud poker. From that point on, Phil was addicted to poker and wanted to discover every little thing he could about the game. He routinely told his grandparents that he was planning on being a professional poker player. Phil did not allow the negative feedback from others destroy his dream of being one of the greatest poker players on the planet.
Phil started competing intently after acquiring a fake ID by the name of Jerome. He sharpened his game at the poker rooms in Atlantic City. The beginning few years for him were a learning opportunity and coming away with a win was not a normal outcome at the time. Phil became known at the 2000 World Series of Poker when he made 2 final tables and won his 1st World Series of Poker bracelet, in a two dollar, 500 Pot-Limit Omaha event. At the final table he defeated many of the better 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. Phil continues to play in "The Big Game" at the Bellagio with the best players on the planet. Phil credits his success to dedication and an eternal love for poker. Phil states that he’s picking up skills every single day and is very humble about his accomplishments. Phil knows he makes blunders every single game of poker and constantly strives to improve.
Despite the fact that Ivey has come first in some big tournaments, he likes winning cash games on a normal basis.