Phil Ivey has been branded as the number one poker contender on the planet by quite a few of the top professionals. Phil was born in Riverside, CA and moved to NJ before reaching the age of one. His grandpa taught Phil penny-ante Five-Card Stud poker. From that point on, Phil was hooked on poker and wished to learn whatever he possibly could about poker. Phil routinely told his grandparents that he wanted to be a professional poker player. He didn’t let the adverse comments from others destroy his goal of being one of the best poker players in the world.
He started playing intently after getting a false ID with the name of Jerome. He sharpened his techniques at the poker rooms in Atlantic City. The first number of years for Phil were a teaching experience and coming away with a win was not a regular thing at the time. He made his mark at the 2000 WSOP where he made 2 final tables and won his first World Series of Poker bracelet, in a $2, 500 Pot-Limit Omaha event. At the final table he destroyed many of the better known professionals which includes "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 Vegas. He continues to play in "The Big Game" at the Bellagio with the best players on the planet. Phil credits his achievements to dedication and an undying passion for the game of poker. He states that he is picking up skills every single day and is quite abashed about his success. Phil admits to making blunders in each session of poker and constantly aspires to improve.
Despite the fact that Phil has won some large tournaments, he prefers winning money games on a regular basis.
