Phil Ivey

Phil Ivey is an American professional poker player known for his achievements in both tournament and cash game poker. Ivey has won 11 World Series of Poker bracelets, one World Poker Tour title, and has appeared at nine World Poker Tour final tables. He is recognized for his versatility and skill across a wide range of poker formats.

Ivey began his career as a teenager in Atlantic City, New Jersey, using a fake ID under the name Jerome Graham. He became known among local players as "No Home Jerome" due to his frequent presence at the tables. Although primarily a cash game player, Ivey has also found success in poker tournaments. In his first appearance at the World Series of Poker, he cashed three times, reached two final tables, and won his first bracelet in the $2,580 Pot-Limit Omaha event. His tournament accomplishments include winning three bracelets at one World Series of Poker, tying the record for most wins in a single year.

Ivey is known for his aggressive playing style and advanced hand-reading abilities, making him a challenging opponent in both No-Limit Hold'em and mixed games. With 11 World Series of Poker bracelets, he holds the second most WSOP titles all-time, second only to Phil Hellmuth, and was the youngest player to win 10 bracelets. Ivey has also competed in high-stakes cash games, including a session against businessman Andy Beal where stakes reached $50,000/$100,000 and Ivey won $16.6 million. His live tournament earnings exceed $52 million.

Ivey has appeared in televised poker shows such as "High Stakes Poker" and "Poker After Dark." ARIA Resort & Casino named a high-limit poker room "The Ivey Room" in his honor. He was inducted into the Poker Hall of Fame and has continued to reach final tables in major events, including the $25,000 Pot-Limit Omaha High Roller and the $100,000 Pot-Limit Omaha event at the World Series of Poker.

Outside of poker, Ivey has pursued entrepreneurial ventures, including Ivey Poker, a play-for-free poker app, and Ivey League, a poker training site featuring professional coaches. He also established the Budding Ivey Foundation, a nonprofit organization supporting charitable causes such as children's literacy and programs for the homeless. Ivey's approach to poker combines mathematical strategy, psychological insight, and composure, earning him respect throughout the poker industry.