Phil Ivey has been labeled as the best poker competitor on the planet by many of the top pros. Phil Ivey was born in Riverside, CA and moved to Jersey before reaching turning one. His papa taught Phil penny-ante Five-Card Stud poker. From that point on, Phil was addicted to poker and wished to discover everything he possibly could about the game. He routinely told his grandparents that he wanted to be a professional poker player. He did not let the detrimental feedback from others kill his ambition of being one of the best poker players on the planet.

He started competing seriously after getting a fake ID with the name of Jerome. He honed his skills at the casinos of Atlantic City. The beginning few years for him were a learning period and winning was not a regular thing at the time. Phil 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 two dollar, five hundred Pot-Limit Omaha game. At the final table he defeated many of the better known pros which includes "Amarillo Slim" Preston, David "Devilfish" Ulliot, and Phil Hellmuth, Jr.

He decided to take his game to the successive level and moved out west to Vegas. He continues to play in "The Big Game" at the Bellagio with the best players on the planet. Phil credits his success to hard work and an immeasurable love for poker. He states that he is learning every day and is incredibly abashed about his accomplishments. He admits to making mistakes in each game of poker and constantly aspires to improve.

Even though Phil has come first in some big tournaments, he likes destroying money games on a normal basis.