Phil Ivey has been labeled as the greatest poker player on the planet by many of the top-ranked pros. He was born in Riverside, CA and relocated to NJ before his first birthday. His grandfather taught Phil penny-ante 5-Card Stud poker. From that point on, Phil was addicted to poker and wanted to pickup whatever he possibly could about poker. Phil routinely told his grandparents that he wanted to be a professional poker player. Phil didn’t let the detrimental feedback from others kill his dream of being one of the best poker players on the planet.
Phil began competing seriously after acquiring a false ID by the name of Jerome. He sharpened his techniques at the poker rooms of Atlantic City. The beginning number of years for Phil were a learning period and winning was not a regular outcome at the time. He became known at the 2000 WSOP where he achieved two final tables and won his first World Series of Poker bracelet, in a two dollar, 500 Pot-Limit Omaha game. At the closing table he defeated many of the better known professionals including but not limited to "Amarillo Slim" Preston, David "Devilfish" Ulliot, and Phil Hellmuth, Jr.
He made a decision to take his game to the next level and moved out west to Vegas. Phil continues to play in "The Big Game" at the Bellagio with the greatest players in the world. Ivey credits his achievements to discipline and an immeasurable love for the game of poker. He says that he’s learning every day and is incredibly abashed about his success. Phil knows he makes blunders in each session of poker and always aspires to get better.
Although Ivey has won some big-time tournaments, he favors destroying cash games on a normal basis.
April 15th, 2025
Marlee
Leave a reply