Phil Ivey has been branded as the best poker contender in the world by quite a few of the top professionals. He was born in Riverside, CA and moved to Jersey before reaching the age of one. His grandpa taught Phil one cent-ante Five-Card Stud poker. From that point on, he was addicted to poker and wished to pickup whatever he possibly could about poker. Phil routinely told his grandparents that he was going to be a professional poker player. He didn’t let the adverse comments from other people kill his goal of being one of the greatest poker competitors on the planet.
He began competing seriously after getting a fake ID with the name of Jerome. He sharpened his techniques at the casinos of Atlantic City. The first few years for Phil were a teaching experience and coming away with a win was not a common outcome at the time. Phil became known at the 2000 WSOP where he made two final tables and won his 1st WSOP bracelet, in a two dollar, 500 Pot-Limit Omaha match. At the closing table he defeated a number of the well known pros including but not limited to "Amarillo Slim" Preston, David "Devilfish" Ulliot, and Phil Hellmuth, Jr.
Phil made a decision to take his skills to the next level and headed out west to Las Vegas. Phil continues to play in "The Big Game" at the Bellagio with the best players on the planet. Phil credits his achievements to discipline and an immeasurable love for the game of poker. Phil states that he is learning every day and is incredibly abashed about his accomplishments. Phil knows he makes mistakes every single game of poker and always strives to improve.
Although Phil has won some large tournaments, he favors winning cash games on a normal basis.