Phil Ivey has been referred to as the number one poker competitor on the planet by quite a few of the top pros. Phil was born in Riverside, CA and moved to NJ before reaching the age of 1. His papa taught him one cent-ante Five-Card Stud poker. From then on on, Phil was addicted to poker and wished to pickup whatever he could about poker. Phil routinely told his grandparents that he wanted to be a professional poker player. He did not permit the detrimental comments from other people annihilate his dream of becoming one of the best poker competitors in the world.

He began playing seriously after getting a fake ID by the name of Jerome. He sharpened his techniques at the casinos in Atlantic City. The beginning few years for him were a learning experience and winning was not a regular thing at the time. He made his mark at the 2000 WSOP where he made 2 final tables and won his first WSOP bracelet, in a two dollar, 500 Pot-Limit Omaha event. At the closing table he defeated quite a few of the well known professionals which includes "Amarillo Slim" Preston, David "Devilfish" Ulliot, and Phil Hellmuth, Jr.

He decided to take his skills to the successive level and headed out west to Sin City. He continues to participate in in "The Big Game" at the Bellagio with the best players in the world. Ivey credits his success to dedication and an undying passion for poker. He states that he is learning every day and is very abashed about his accomplishments. He admits to making errors in each game of poker and constantly strives to get better.

Despite the fact that Ivey has won some big tournaments, he favors winning cash games on a normal basis.