Phil Ivey has been labeled as the number one poker player in the world by quite a few of the top-ranked pros. He was born in Riverside, CA and relocated to New Jersey before his first birthday. His grandfather taught Phil penny-ante Five-Card Stud poker. From then on on, Phil was addicted to poker and wanted to learn every little thing he could about poker. Phil would tell his parents that he was planning on being a professional poker player. He didn’t allow the adverse comments from others kill his ambition of becoming one of the greatest poker players in the world.

He started competing seriously after acquiring a fake ID by the name of Jerome. He sharpened his abilities at the casinos of Atlantic City. The initial few years for Phil were a teaching experience and coming away with a win was not a common thing at the time. He made his mark at the 2000 WSOP when he achieved 2 final tables and won his 1st WSOP bracelet, in a $2, 500 Pot-Limit Omaha event. At the last table he destroyed many of the well known pros which includes "Amarillo Slim" Preston, David "Devilfish" Ulliot, and Phil Hellmuth, Jr.

Phil decided to take his skills to the next level and moved out west to Las Vegas. He continues to play in "The Big Game" at the Bellagio with the greatest players in the world. Ivey credits his achievements to dedication and a continuing passion for the game of poker. He says that he is picking up skills every single day and is quite abashed about his achievements. Phil admits to making blunders in each game of poker and constantly aspires to get better.

Although Ivey has come first in some big-time tournaments, he likes winning money games on a regular basis.