Phil Ivey has been labeled as the best poker player on the planet by most of the top pros. Phil was born in Riverside, CA and relocated to NJ before his first birthday. His grandpa taught Phil penny-ante Five-Card Stud poker. From that point on, Phil was addicted to poker and wished to pickup everything he could about the game. Phil would tell his grandparents that he was going to be a professional poker player. He did not let the negative comments from others kill his goal of becoming one of the best poker competitors in the world.
He started playing intently after acquiring a false ID with the name of Jerome. He honed his game at the poker rooms of Atlantic City. The initial number of years for Phil were a learning period and winning was not a normal thing at the time. Phil became known at the 2000 World Series of Poker when he made two final tables and came away with his 1st World Series of Poker bracelet, in a two dollar, 500 Pot-Limit Omaha game. At the last table he defeated quite a few of the better known professionals including "Amarillo Slim" Preston, David "Devilfish" Ulliot, and Phil Hellmuth, Jr.
Phil decided to take his skills to the next level and headed out west to Vegas. He continues to participate in in "The Big Game" at the Bellagio with the greatest players in the world. Phil credits his success to discipline and an immeasurable passion for the game of poker. Phil states that he is picking up skills every day and is very humble about his achievements. Phil admits to making mistakes in each game of poker and always strives to get better.
Despite the fact that Phil has come first in some large tournaments, he prefers winning cash games on a normal basis.