Phil Ivey has been branded as the best poker competitor on the planet by many of the top-ranked pros. Phil was born in Riverside, CA and moved to NJ before reaching turning one. His papa taught Phil one cent-ante Five-Card Stud poker. From that point on, he was addicted to poker and wanted to pickup every little thing he could about the game. He would tell his elders that he wanted to be a professional poker player. He didn’t allow the negative feedback from others destroy his dream of becoming one of the greatest poker players in the world.

Phil began playing intently after acquiring a false ID by the name of Jerome. He sharpened his game at the casinos of Atlantic City. The first few years for him were a learning opportunity and coming away with a win was not a normal outcome at the time. Phil became known at the 2000 World Series of Poker when he achieved 2 final tables and came away with his 1st World Series of Poker bracelet, in a $2, 500 Pot-Limit Omaha game. At the final table he destroyed many of the well known pros including "Amarillo Slim" Preston, David "Devilfish" Ulliot, and Phil Hellmuth, Jr.

Phil made a decision to take his game to the next level and headed out west to Las Vegas. Phil continues to play in "The Big Game" at the Bellagio with the best players in the world. Ivey credits his achievements to dedication and an undying passion for the game of poker. He says that he’s learning every day and is very abashed about his accomplishments. He knows he makes blunders in each game of poker and always aspires to get better.

Although Phil has won some large tournaments, he prefers winning money games on a regular basis.