Phil Ivey has been referred to as the best poker player in the world by most of the top-ranked professionals. Phil was born in Riverside, CA and moved to Jersey before his first birthday. His grandpa showed him to one cent-ante 5-Card Stud poker. From then on on, he was hooked on poker and wished to discover whatever he possibly could about poker. He routinely told his elders that he wanted to be a professional poker player. He did not allow the negative comments from others kill his goal of being one of the best poker competitors on the planet.

He started playing intently after getting a false ID with the name of Jerome. He sharpened his abilities at the poker rooms in Atlantic City. The beginning few years for him were a learning opportunity and winning wasn’t a regular thing at the time. He became known at the 2000 WSOP when he made 2 final tables and came away with his 1st WSOP bracelet, in a two dollar, five hundred Pot-Limit Omaha event. At the final table he defeated quite a few of the well known pros which includes "Amarillo Slim" Preston, David "Devilfish" Ulliot, and Phil Hellmuth, Jr.

He decided to take his skills to the next level and moved out west to Las Vegas. He continues to participate in in "The Big Game" at the Bellagio with the best players on the planet. Phil credits his success to hard work and an undying love for the game of poker. He says that he is learning every single day and is very humble about his achievements. He knows he makes blunders in each session of poker and constantly aspires to get better.

Despite the fact that Ivey has come first in some big tournaments, he likes winning cash games on a regular basis.