Phil Ivey has been labeled as the greatest poker contender in the world by quite a few of the top pros. Phil Ivey was born in Riverside, CA and moved to New Jersey before his first birthday. His grandpa taught him penny-ante Five-Card Stud poker. From that point on, he was addicted to poker and wished to pickup whatever he possibly could about the game. Phil routinely told his elders that he was going to be a professional poker player. Phil did not let the adverse comments from other people annihilate his dream of being one of the best poker competitors on the planet.
He started playing seriously after acquiring a fake ID with the name of Jerome. He practiced his techniques at the casinos in Atlantic City. The beginning few years for him were a teaching experience 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 World Series of Poker bracelet, in a $2, 500 Pot-Limit Omaha match. At the final 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 headed out west to Sin City. He continues to participate in in "The Big Game" at the Bellagio with the best players in the world. Phil credits his achievements to hard work and a continuing passion for the game of poker. He says that he’s picking up skills every single day and is quite humble about his achievements. Phil admits to making errors in each game of poker and always strives to improve.
Despite the fact that Phil has come first in some big-time tournaments, he prefers winning cash games on a normal basis.