Phil Ivey has been labeled as the best poker contender on the planet by many of the top pros. Phil Ivey was born in Riverside, CA and moved to NJ before his first birthday. His grandfather taught him one cent-ante 5-Card Stud poker. From that point on, Phil was hooked on poker and wished to discover every little thing he possibly could about poker. Phil routinely told his grandparents that he was planning on being a professional poker player. He did not permit the detrimental feedback from other people kill his dream of being one of the best poker players in the world.

Phil began competing intently after getting a fake ID with the name of Jerome. He practiced his skills at the casinos in Atlantic City. The first number of years for him were a learning opportunity and coming away with a win was not a common thing at the time. Phil became known at the 2000 World Series of Poker when he made two final tables and won his first World Series of Poker bracelet, in a $2, 500 Pot-Limit Omaha game. At the final table he defeated a number of the better known pros 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 successive level and headed out west to Vegas. Phil continues to compete in in "The Big Game" at the Bellagio with the best players in the world. Phil credits his achievements to discipline and an immeasurable passion for poker. Phil says that he’s picking up skills every single day and is very humble about his achievements. Phil admits to making mistakes in each session of poker and always aspires to get better.

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