Phil Ivey has been labeled as the best poker competitor on the globe by quite a few of the top-ranked pros. Phil was born in Riverside, CA and relocated to NJ before reaching the age of 1. His grandpa taught Phil one cent-ante Five-Card Stud poker. From then on on, Phil was addicted to poker and wanted to learn whatever he possibly could about the game. He routinely told his parents that he was going to be a professional poker player. He did not allow the negative feedback from others kill his dream of becoming one of the strongest poker players in the world.
Phil started playing intently after getting a false ID by the name of Jerome. He sharpened his skills at the casinos in Atlantic City. The beginning few years for him were a learning experience and winning was not a common outcome at the time. He became known at the 2000 World Series of Poker when he made two final tables and came away with his first World Series of Poker bracelet, in a two dollar, five hundred Pot-Limit Omaha match. At the closing table he defeated quite a few of the well known pros 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 Sin City. He continues to play in "The Big Game" at the Bellagio with the greatest players on the planet. Phil credits his success to discipline and an undying passion for poker. Phil says that he is picking up skills every single day and is incredibly abashed about his success. He knows he makes blunders every single game of poker and always aspires to improve.
Although Phil has won some large tournaments, he prefers destroying cash games on a regular basis.