Phil Ivey has been labeled as the best poker contender in the world by many of the top-ranked professionals. Phil was born in Riverside, CA and moved to NJ before his first birthday. His papa taught Phil penny-ante Five-Card Stud poker. From that point on, he was addicted to poker and wished to pickup anything he possibly could about poker. He routinely told his elders that he was going to be a professional poker player. He did not let the negative feedback from other people kill his dream of being one of the strongest poker players in the world.
He started playing seriously after getting a fake ID by the name of Jerome. He honed his game at the poker rooms of Atlantic City. The first few years for Phil were a teaching experience and coming away with a win wasn’t a normal outcome at the time. Phil became known at the 2000 World Series of Poker where he made 2 final tables and won his 1st World Series of Poker bracelet, in a two dollar, five hundred Pot-Limit Omaha match. At the closing table he destroyed many of the better known professionals including but not limited to "Amarillo Slim" Preston, David "Devilfish" Ulliot, and Phil Hellmuth, Jr.
He made a decision to take his game to the next level and moved out west to Sin City. He continues to participate in in "The Big Game" at the Bellagio with the best players in the world. Ivey credits his achievements to dedication and an undying passion for the game of poker. He states that he is learning every single day and is incredibly abashed about his achievements. He admits to making blunders in each game of poker and always aspires to get better.
Despite the fact that Ivey has come first in some big tournaments, he likes winning money games on a normal basis.
