Phil Ivey has been labeled as the number one poker contender in the world by most of the top-ranked professionals. Phil Ivey was born in Riverside, CA and relocated to NJ before his first birthday. His grandfather taught Phil one cent-ante Five-Card Stud poker. From that point on, Phil was addicted to poker and wished to learn everything he possibly could about poker. Phil routinely told his parents that he wanted to be a professional poker player. Phil did not permit the negative feedback from others kill his goal of becoming one of the best poker players on the planet.
He began competing intently after getting a false ID by the name of Jerome. He sharpened his abilities at the poker rooms in Atlantic City. The initial number of years for him were a learning period and coming away with a win was not a regular outcome at the time. Phil became known at the 2000 World Series of Poker where he made two final tables and came away with his 1st WSOP bracelet, in a two dollar, five hundred Pot-Limit Omaha match. At the last table he defeated many of the better 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 Vegas. He continues to participate in in "The Big Game" at the Bellagio with the greatest players on the planet. Ivey credits his achievements to discipline and an undying love for poker. Phil says that he’s picking up skills every day and is quite abashed about his achievements. He admits to making mistakes every single session of poker and constantly aspires to get better.
Despite the fact that Ivey has come first in some large tournaments, he prefers winning money games on a normal basis.