Phil Ivey has been labeled as the greatest poker player in the world by quite a few of the top-ranked professionals. Phil Ivey was born in Riverside, CA and relocated to Jersey before reaching the age of one. His papa taught him one cent-ante Five-Card Stud poker. From that point on, Phil was hooked on poker and wished to discover whatever he could about the game. He would tell his parents that he was planning on being a professional poker player. Phil didn’t allow the negative feedback from other people annihilate his dream of being one of the strongest poker competitors in the world.

He started playing intently after acquiring a fake ID with the name of Jerome. He practiced his techniques at the casinos of Atlantic City. The beginning few years for Phil were a learning experience and coming away with a win wasn’t a common outcome at the time. Phil became known at the 2000 WSOP where he made 2 final tables and came away with his 1st World Series of Poker bracelet, in a $2, 500 Pot-Limit Omaha event. At the closing table he destroyed many of the better known pros which includes "Amarillo Slim" Preston, David "Devilfish" Ulliot, and Phil Hellmuth, Jr.

He made a decision to take his skills to the next level and headed out west to Vegas. He continues to play in "The Big Game" at the Bellagio with the best players in the world. Phil credits his achievements to hard work and a continuing love for the game of poker. He says that he’s learning every single day and is very abashed about his achievements. Phil knows he makes errors every single session of poker and always strives to get better.

Even though Ivey has won some big tournaments, he likes destroying money games on a normal basis.