Phil Ivey has been referred to as the number one poker player in the world by most of the top-ranked pros. He was born in Riverside, CA and relocated to Jersey before reaching the age of one. His grandfather taught him one cent-ante 5-Card Stud poker. From that point on, Phil was addicted to poker and wished to pickup every little thing he possibly could about poker. Phil routinely told his grandparents that he wanted to be a professional poker player. Phil did not allow the detrimental comments from other people kill his ambition of becoming one of the greatest poker players in the world.
He started competing intently after acquiring a fake ID by the name of Jerome. He practiced his techniques at the poker rooms in Atlantic City. The beginning few years for Phil were a learning experience and winning was not a normal thing at the time. Phil became known at the 2000 WSOP where he achieved two final tables and came away with his first World Series of Poker bracelet, in a two dollar, five hundred Pot-Limit Omaha event. At the final table he defeated many of the well known pros including but not limited to "Amarillo Slim" Preston, David "Devilfish" Ulliot, and Phil Hellmuth, Jr.
Phil made a decision to take his skills to the next level and headed out west to Sin City. He continues to play in "The Big Game" at the Bellagio with the best players on the planet. Ivey credits his success to discipline and an undying love for poker. Phil says that he’s learning every day and is incredibly humble about his success. He knows he makes blunders in each game of poker and always aspires to improve.
Despite the fact that Ivey has come first in some large tournaments, he likes destroying money games on a normal basis.