Poker Learn About Poker from the Experts

Read more about the
Las Vegas 2024 Super
Bowl Streaker!

Phil Ivey has been labeled as the greatest poker contender in the world by many of the top pros. Phil Ivey was born in Riverside, CA and relocated to New Jersey before his first birthday. His grandfather taught Phil one cent-ante Five-Card Stud poker. From that point on, Phil was hooked on poker and wanted to learn anything he possibly could about the game. Phil would tell his grandparents that he was going to be a professional poker player. Phil didn't permit the adverse comments from other people destroy his ambition of becoming one of the greatest poker competitors on the planet.

Phil started playing seriously after getting a false ID by the name of Jerome. He practiced his techniques at the casinos of Atlantic City. The beginning few years for him were a learning period and coming away with a win was not a regular outcome at the time. He became known at the 2000 World Series of Poker where he made two final tables and came away with his first World Series of Poker bracelet, in a two dollar, 500 Pot-Limit Omaha match. At the closing table he destroyed quite a few of the better known professionals including "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 Vegas. Phil continues to play in "The Big Game" at the Bellagio with the best players in the world. Ivey credits his success to discipline and a continuing love for the game of poker. Phil says that he's picking up skills every day and is incredibly abashed about his success. Phil admits to making blunders in each game of poker and always strives to improve.

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