Phil Ivey has been labeled as the number one poker competitor on the globe by most of the top pros. He was born in Riverside, CA and relocated to New Jersey before reaching turning one. His grandfather taught him one cent-ante 5-Card Stud poker. From then on on, Phil was addicted to poker and wanted to discover everything he possibly could about poker. He routinely would tell his parents that he wanted to be a professional poker player. He did not permit the adverse feedback from others annihilate his ambition of being one of the best poker competitors in the world.
He began playing intently after getting a fake ID by the name of Jerome. He practiced his techniques at the casinos of Atlantic City. The first few years for him were a learning period and winning was not a common thing at the time. Phil made his mark at the 2000 WSOP when he achieved 2 final tables and came away with his 1st WSOP bracelet, in a $2, five hundred Pot-Limit Omaha event. At the closing table he defeated many 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 game to the next level and moved out west to Las Vegas. Phil continues to participate in in "The Big Game" at the Bellagio with the best players in the world. Ivey credits his success to hard work and an undying passion for the game of poker. He says that he’s picking up skills every day and is very abashed about his success. He admits to making mistakes every single game of poker and constantly strives to get better.
Despite the fact that Phil has come first in some big tournaments, he favors destroying cash games on a normal basis.