Phil Ivey has been branded as the number one poker contender in the world by many of the top-ranked professionals. He was born in Riverside, CA and relocated to NJ before his first birthday. His grandfather taught him one cent-ante 5-Card Stud poker. From that point on, Phil was addicted to poker and wished to learn everything he possibly could about the game. He routinely told his grandparents that he wanted to be a professional poker player. He did not allow the adverse feedback from others kill his goal of being one of the best poker players in the world.
Phil began playing seriously after getting a false ID by the name of Jerome. He sharpened his techniques at the poker rooms of Atlantic City. The initial number of years for him were a teaching experience and coming away with a win was not a common thing at the time. Phil made his mark at the 2000 WSOP when he achieved 2 final tables and won his 1st WSOP bracelet, in a two dollar, five hundred Pot-Limit Omaha game. At the final table he defeated quite a few of the better known pros which includes "Amarillo Slim" Preston, David "Devilfish" Ulliot, and Phil Hellmuth, Jr.
He made a decision to take his game to the next level and headed out west to Las Vegas. He continues to participate in in "The Big Game" at the Bellagio with the greatest players on the planet. Ivey credits his success to discipline and an undying love for the game of poker. He says that he is learning every day and is incredibly humble about his accomplishments. He admits to making blunders in each session of poker and constantly strives to improve.
Despite the fact that Phil has won some big tournaments, he likes winning cash games on a regular basis.
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