Phil Ivey has been referred to as the greatest poker player on the planet by many of the top-ranked pros. Phil Ivey was born in Riverside, CA and relocated to Jersey before reaching the age of 1. His grandfather taught Phil penny-ante 5-Card Stud poker. From that point on, he was addicted to poker and wanted to learn whatever he could about poker. Phil would tell his parents that he was going to be a professional poker player. He didn’t let the negative feedback from other people annihilate his dream of becoming one of the best poker competitors on the planet.
He began competing intently after acquiring a false ID with the name of Jerome. He practiced his techniques at the poker rooms in Atlantic City. The initial number of years for him were a learning experience and coming away with a win was not a normal thing at the time. He made his mark at the 2000 WSOP where he made two final tables and came away with his first World Series of Poker bracelet, in a two dollar, five hundred Pot-Limit Omaha game. At the last table he destroyed a number of the better known professionals including but not limited to "Amarillo Slim" Preston, David "Devilfish" Ulliot, and Phil Hellmuth, Jr.
Phil decided to take his skills to the next level and moved out west to Sin City. He continues to participate in in "The Big Game" at the Bellagio with the greatest players in the world. Ivey credits his success to dedication and an immeasurable passion for the game of poker. He says that he’s picking up skills every single day and is incredibly abashed about his success. Phil knows he makes blunders in each game of poker and always aspires to improve.
Despite the fact that Phil has come first in some big tournaments, he likes winning money games on a normal basis.