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Calculated and cool under pressure, Phil Ivey is the prototypical new
generation Poker player. Heralded by some as the “Tiger Woods” of Poker, Phil
Ivey is an aggressive, focused competitor at the poker tables. And far from
being a one-trick pony, in 2002, Mr. Ivey won no less than three WSOP
bracelets, tying the record for most titles in one year. A model of focus and
concentration, Phil Ivey is one of the genuine rising superstars of the Poker
world.
As with any great champion, one of Phil’s great assets is blending confidence
with humility; although he is supremely aggressive and confident at the table,
away from it he remains humble, constantly seeking to improve his already
impressive play. Watching him play poker is a study in concentration; his eyes
appear capable of taking in every detail in the room; when this is added to
his excellent fundamental skills and cunning aggression, he is a force to be
reckoned with. These skills have paid off for Phil, as at age 28 he has
numerous accolades already under his belt; Four World Series of Poker titles,
multiple tournament victories, and several WPT final table appearances. His
consistent top performances in all types of poker prove that this young gun is
indeed the real deal. To back that up, witness Phil’s commitment to Poker; he
plays up to 90 hours a week of live high stakes Poker and at least 10 hours
online.
Phil’s rise to prominence began as a teenager fascinated with gambling,
growing up in Atlantic City, where he snuck into Casinos with a fake ID
proclaiming him to Jerome Graham. As his skills progressed, so did his
bankroll and he started playing for serious money around age 22. Phil claims
John Juanda and Daniel Negreanu were big influences in his poker development,
and glimpses of both are evident in his style.
Away from the scene of professional poker, Phil finds happiness in his
marriage to his high school sweetheart, Luciaetta and his other interests. An
avid basketball fan, Phil collects NBA jerseys, and follows with great
interest his favourite team, the Los Angeles Lakers. Phil also enjoys playing
recreational basketball, listening to music, and his latest pastime, Golf. He
also devotes time to Full Tilt Poker, a collaborative project he works on with
other Poker greats.
Phil Ivey is considered by many to be the best player in the world; that’s a
bold statement to make, but if anyone can live up to it, it’s Phil. A word of
advice to aspiring Poker Stars: If you plan to win a major title, plan on
having to beat Phil Ivey, because this guy isn’t going anywhere anytime soon.
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