Phil Ivey has been labeled as the greatest poker player in the world by most of the top 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, Phil was addicted to poker and wanted to learn every little thing he possibly could about poker. Phil routinely would tell his grandparents that he wanted to be a professional poker player. He did not allow the adverse comments from other people kill his dream of becoming one of the strongest poker players on the planet.

Phil started playing intently after getting a false ID by the name of Jerome. He practiced his game at the casinos of Atlantic City. The initial number of years for him were a learning experience and coming away with a win wasn’t a normal thing at the time. Phil made his mark at the 2000 WSOP where he achieved 2 final tables and won his 1st WSOP bracelet, in a two dollar, 500 Pot-Limit Omaha event. At the last table he defeated many of the better known professionals 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 Sin City. He continues to compete in in "The Big Game" at the Bellagio with the greatest players in the world. Phil credits his achievements to dedication and a continuing love for poker. Phil states that he is picking up skills every day and is very abashed about his accomplishments. Phil knows he makes blunders in each game of poker and constantly aspires to get better.

Although Phil has come first in some big-time tournaments, he favors destroying cash games on a normal basis.