Phil Ivey has been referred to as the number one poker contender on the globe by most of the top pros. Phil Ivey was born in Riverside, CA and relocated to NJ before his first birthday. His grandfather taught Phil penny-ante 5-Card Stud poker. From that point on, he was hooked on poker and wished to learn every little thing he could about the game. Phil would tell his parents that he was planning on being a professional poker player. He didn’t allow the adverse feedback from others kill his ambition of being one of the greatest poker competitors in the world.
Phil began playing seriously after getting a false ID by the name of Jerome. He sharpened his abilities at the casinos of Atlantic City. The initial few years for him were a teaching period and winning was not a common outcome at the time. Phil made his mark at the 2000 WSOP where he made two final tables and came away with his 1st World Series of Poker bracelet, in a two dollar, 500 Pot-Limit Omaha match. At the final table he destroyed quite a few of the well known pros which includes "Amarillo Slim" Preston, David "Devilfish" Ulliot, and Phil Hellmuth, Jr.
Phil made a decision to take his skills to the next level and moved out west to Las Vegas. He continues to play in "The Big Game" at the Bellagio with the best players on the planet. Phil credits his achievements to hard work and an immeasurable love for the game of poker. He states that he’s picking up skills every day and is quite humble about his achievements. Phil admits to making mistakes in each session of poker and always aspires to improve.
Even though Ivey has won some large tournaments, he favors winning cash games on a normal basis.