Phil Ivey has been referred to as the number one poker contender on the planet by many of the top-ranked pros. He was born in Riverside, CA and relocated to New Jersey before his first birthday. His papa introduced him to one cent-ante Five-Card Stud poker. From then on on, Phil was hooked on poker and wanted to discover every little thing he possibly could about poker. Phil routinely would tell his parents that he was going to be a professional poker player. Phil didn’t allow the adverse comments from others kill his dream of being one of the strongest poker competitors in the world.
He started competing intently after acquiring a fake ID by the name of Jerome. He sharpened his game at the poker rooms of Atlantic City. The beginning number of years for him were a teaching opportunity and coming away with a win was not a common thing at the time. Phil made his mark at the 2000 WSOP where he made 2 final tables and came away with his 1st WSOP bracelet, in a $2, 500 Pot-Limit Omaha match. At the closing table he destroyed many of the better known professionals including but not limited to "Amarillo Slim" Preston, David "Devilfish" Ulliot, and Phil Hellmuth, Jr.
Phil made a decision 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 hard work and an immeasurable love for the game of poker. He states that he is learning every single day and is very humble about his accomplishments. He admits to making blunders in each session of poker and always strives to improve.
Despite the fact that Phil has come first in some big tournaments, he likes winning cash games on a regular basis.
