Phil Ivey has been branded as the greatest poker player in the world by many of the top-ranked pros. Phil Ivey was born in Riverside, CA and moved to Jersey before reaching the age of 1. His grandfather introduced him to one cent-ante Five-Card Stud poker. From that point on, Phil was addicted to poker and wished to learn every little thing he could about the game. He routinely told his elders that he wanted to be a professional poker player. Phil did not allow the detrimental comments from other people destroy his dream of being one of the greatest poker competitors on the planet.
He began competing intently after acquiring a fake ID with the name of Jerome. He practiced his techniques at the poker rooms in Atlantic City. The first few years for him were a learning period and coming away with a win was not a common thing at the time. He 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, five hundred Pot-Limit Omaha event. At the final 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 decided to take his game to the next level and moved out west to Las Vegas. He continues to participate in in "The Big Game" at the Bellagio with the greatest players in the world. Ivey credits his achievements to hard work and an eternal passion for poker. He states that he is picking up skills every day and is very humble about his accomplishments. Phil admits to making mistakes every single game of poker and always aspires to improve.
Despite the fact that Ivey has won some big-time tournaments, he favors destroying cash games on a regular basis.