Phil Ivey has been referred to as the best poker contender in the world by quite a few of the top-ranked professionals. Phil was born in Riverside, CA and relocated to NJ before his first birthday. His grandfather taught Phil penny-ante 5-Card Stud poker. From that point on, Phil was addicted to poker and wanted to learn whatever he could about the game. He routinely told his elders that he wanted to be a professional poker player. Phil didn’t let the negative comments from others kill his goal of becoming one of the strongest poker players in the world.
Phil began competing intently after getting a fake ID by the name of Jerome. He practiced his game at the casinos in Atlantic City. The beginning few years for him were a learning period and coming away with a win was not a common outcome at the time. Phil became known at the 2000 World Series of Poker where he made 2 final tables and came away with his first WSOP bracelet, in a $2, 500 Pot-Limit Omaha match. At the final table he destroyed quite a few of the better known pros including but not limited to "Amarillo Slim" Preston, David "Devilfish" Ulliot, and Phil Hellmuth, Jr.
He decided to take his skills to the successive level and headed out west to Sin City. Phil 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 a continuing love for the game of poker. He states that he is picking up skills every single day and is very abashed about his success. Phil admits to making blunders in each game of poker and constantly aspires to improve.
Despite the fact that Phil has come first in some big-time tournaments, he likes winning money games on a regular basis.
