Phil Ivey has been branded as the number one poker contender on the globe by quite a few of the top pros. Phil Ivey was born in Riverside, CA and moved to Jersey before his first birthday. His papa taught Phil one cent-ante 5-Card Stud poker. From then on on, he was hooked on poker and wanted to pickup every little thing he possibly could about the game. He routinely told his grandparents that he was going to be a professional poker player. Phil didn’t let the negative comments from others kill his ambition of being one of the strongest poker players in the world.

He started playing intently after acquiring a fake ID with the name of Jerome. He practiced his abilities at the casinos of Atlantic City. The first few years for Phil were a teaching period and coming away with a win was not a regular thing at the time. He made his mark at the 2000 World Series of Poker when he made two final tables and won his 1st World Series of Poker bracelet, in a $2, five hundred Pot-Limit Omaha event. At the closing table he defeated many of the better known professionals including but not limited to "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 Las Vegas. He continues to play in "The Big Game" at the Bellagio with the best players in the world. Phil credits his achievements to dedication and an undying love for the game of poker. Phil says that he’s learning every day and is incredibly humble about his success. Phil admits to making mistakes in each session of poker and always strives to get better.

Despite the fact that Ivey has won some big-time tournaments, he prefers winning money games on a regular basis.