Phil Ivey has been labeled as the greatest poker player in the world by quite a few of the top-ranked professionals. Phil was born in Riverside, CA and moved to Jersey before his first birthday. His grandfather taught Phil penny-ante 5-Card Stud poker. From that point on, he was addicted to poker and wanted to learn whatever he possibly could about poker. He routinely would tell his parents that he was planning on being a professional poker player. Phil did not allow the detrimental comments from other people kill his ambition of being one of the best poker competitors in the world.
Phil began playing seriously after getting a fake ID by the name of Jerome. He practiced his game at the poker rooms in Atlantic City. The initial few years for Phil were a teaching experience and winning was not a common thing at the time. Phil became known at the 2000 World Series of Poker where he achieved 2 final tables and came away with his 1st WSOP bracelet, in a two dollar, five hundred Pot-Limit Omaha game. At the closing table he destroyed many of the better known pros including "Amarillo Slim" Preston, David "Devilfish" Ulliot, and Phil Hellmuth, Jr.
Phil made a decision to take his skills to the next level and headed out west to Sin City. Phil continues to compete in in "The Big Game" at the Bellagio with the best players in the world. Ivey credits his achievements to dedication and a continuing love for poker. Phil states that he is learning every single day and is quite humble about his achievements. Phil admits to making blunders every single session of poker and constantly strives to improve.
Even though Ivey has come first in some large tournaments, he prefers winning cash games on a normal basis.
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