Phil Ivey has been branded as the greatest poker player in the world by quite a few of the top professionals. He was born in Riverside, CA and relocated to NJ before reaching the age of 1. His papa introduced him to penny-ante 5-Card Stud poker. From then on on, Phil was addicted to poker and wished to learn every little thing he possibly could about poker. Phil routinely told his parents that he wanted to be a professional poker player. He did not let the adverse feedback from other people kill his dream of becoming one of the strongest poker competitors in the world.
Phil started playing seriously after getting a fake ID by the name of Jerome. He honed his skills at the poker rooms of Atlantic City. The first few years for him were a learning opportunity and winning was not a common outcome at the time. He became known at the 2000 World Series of Poker where he made 2 final tables and came away with his 1st World Series of Poker bracelet, in a $2, 500 Pot-Limit Omaha event. At the final table he destroyed a number of the better known pros which includes "Amarillo Slim" Preston, David "Devilfish" Ulliot, and Phil Hellmuth, Jr.
He 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 dedication and an immeasurable love for poker. Phil states that he’s learning every day and is incredibly abashed about his success. He admits to making errors in each game of poker and constantly aspires to get better.
Although Ivey has won some large tournaments, he likes winning money games on a normal basis.
