Phil Ivey has been branded as the number one poker player on the globe by most of the top-ranked pros. Phil Ivey was born in Riverside, CA and moved to NJ before reaching the age of 1. His grandfather introduced him to penny-ante 5-Card Stud poker. From that point on, Phil was addicted to poker and wanted to discover whatever he possibly could about poker. He would tell his grandparents that he wanted to be a professional poker player. He did not let the adverse feedback from others annihilate his goal of being one of the greatest poker players in the world.
He began playing seriously after getting a false ID with the name of Jerome. He practiced his skills at the casinos in Atlantic City. The initial few years for him were a learning period and winning was not a common outcome at the time. Phil made his mark at the 2000 WSOP when he made 2 final tables and came away with his 1st WSOP bracelet, in a $2, 500 Pot-Limit Omaha event. At the final table he destroyed quite a few of the better known professionals including but not limited to "Amarillo Slim" Preston, David "Devilfish" Ulliot, and Phil Hellmuth, Jr.
He decided to take his skills to the successive level and headed out west to Vegas. He continues to play in "The Big Game" at the Bellagio with the best players in the world. Ivey credits his achievements to dedication and an undying passion for poker. Phil states that he is picking up skills every day and is very humble about his success. Phil knows he makes blunders every single game of poker and always aspires to get better.
Even though Ivey has come first in some large tournaments, he prefers destroying cash games on a normal basis.