Phil Ivey has been labeled as the greatest poker player on the planet by quite a few of the top-ranked pros. He was born in Riverside, CA and moved to NJ before reaching the age of 1. His grandpa introduced him to penny-ante Five-Card Stud poker. From then on on, Phil was addicted to poker and wished to learn every little thing he possibly could about the game. Phil would tell his grandparents that he was planning on being a professional poker player. Phil didn’t allow the detrimental comments from others destroy his dream of becoming one of the greatest poker players on the planet.
He started playing seriously after getting a false ID with the name of Jerome. He practiced his abilities at the poker rooms in Atlantic City. The beginning few years for Phil were a learning opportunity and coming away with a win was not a regular outcome at the time. He became known at the 2000 World Series of Poker when he achieved two final tables and won his 1st World Series of Poker bracelet, in a $2, five hundred Pot-Limit Omaha event. At the final table he defeated quite a few of the better known professionals including "Amarillo Slim" Preston, David "Devilfish" Ulliot, and Phil Hellmuth, Jr.
Phil decided to take his game to the next level and headed out west to Las Vegas. Phil continues to play in "The Big Game" at the Bellagio with the greatest players in the world. Phil credits his achievements to discipline and an undying passion for poker. Phil states that he is learning every day and is very humble about his achievements. He admits to making mistakes in each game of poker and constantly aspires to improve.
Although Ivey has come first in some big tournaments, he likes destroying cash games on a normal basis.