Phil Ivey has been referred to as the greatest poker competitor in the world by many of the top-ranked pros. Phil was born in Riverside, CA and relocated to Jersey before his first birthday. His papa taught him penny-ante Five-Card Stud poker. From then on on, he was addicted to poker and wanted to pickup whatever he possibly could about poker. Phil routinely told his parents that he was planning on being a professional poker player. He did not permit the detrimental comments from others kill his goal of becoming one of the greatest poker players in the world.
Phil started competing seriously after getting a fake ID with the name of Jerome. He sharpened his techniques at the casinos of Atlantic City. The first few years for him were a teaching period and coming away with a win was not a normal outcome at the time. He 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, five hundred Pot-Limit Omaha match. At the last table he destroyed quite a few of the well known professionals which includes "Amarillo Slim" Preston, David "Devilfish" Ulliot, and Phil Hellmuth, Jr.
Phil decided to take his game to the successive level and moved out west to Las Vegas. He continues to play in "The Big Game" at the Bellagio with the best players in the world. Phil credits his achievements to discipline and an undying love for the game of poker. He says that he’s picking up skills every day and is incredibly abashed about his success. He admits to making blunders in each game of poker and constantly aspires to get better.
Although Ivey has come first in some large tournaments, he prefers winning cash games on a normal basis.