Phil Ivey has been referred to as the greatest poker contender on the planet by many of the top-ranked pros. Phil was born in Riverside, CA and relocated to New Jersey before reaching the age of one. His papa showed him to one cent-ante Five-Card Stud poker. From that point on, Phil was hooked on poker and wished to learn every little thing he could about the game. He routinely told his grandparents that he was planning on being a professional poker player. Phil did not let the adverse feedback from others destroy his goal of being one of the strongest poker players in the world.

Phil began playing intently after getting a false ID by the name of Jerome. He sharpened his abilities at the casinos in Atlantic City. The first few years for Phil were a learning experience and winning was not a common outcome at the time. Phil made his mark at the 2000 WSOP when he made two final tables and came away with his 1st WSOP bracelet, in a two dollar, 500 Pot-Limit Omaha match. At the closing table he defeated a number of the better known professionals 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 Sin City. He continues to play in "The Big Game" at the Bellagio with the best players in the world. Ivey credits his success to dedication and an immeasurable passion for the game of poker. Phil says that he is learning every single day and is very abashed about his achievements. He knows he makes mistakes every single game of poker and always aspires to improve.

Although Phil has come first in some big-time tournaments, he favors winning money games on a normal basis.