Phil Ivey – Biography, Age, Wife, Career, and Personal Life
Phil Ivey is a legendary figure in the world of professional poker, widely regarded as one of the greatest poker players of all time. Known for his calm demeanor, analytical mind, and exceptional skill at the table, Ivey has earned the nickname “The Tiger Woods of Poker.” Below is a detailed overview of his life, career, and personal journey.
| Full Name | Phillip Dennis Ivey Jr. |
| Date of Birth | February 1, 1977 |
| Age | 48 years old (as of 2025) |
| Place of Birth | Riverside, California, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Profession | Professional Poker Player |
| Net Worth | Estimated $100 million (2025) |
| Marital Status | Divorced |
| Ex-Wife | Luciaetta Ivey (m. 2002–2009) |
| Children | None publicly known |
| Residence | Las Vegas, Nevada, USA |
🎰 Early Life and Background
Phil Ivey was born in Riverside, California, but his family moved to Roselle, New Jersey, when he was a child. It was here that Ivey developed a love for poker, often playing with co-workers at a telemarketing firm during his teenage years. He earned the nickname “No Home Jerome” for using a fake ID to play poker in Atlantic City casinos while underage.
🏆 Professional Poker Career
Phil Ivey’s professional career is a masterclass in poker excellence. He has won 10 World Series of Poker (WSOP) bracelets and appeared at nine World Poker Tour (WPT) final tables, securing one WPT title.
Career Highlights:
- First WSOP Bracelet: 2000, defeating Amarillo Slim
- WSOP Bracelets Total: 10 (Tied for second all-time)
- WPT Titles: 1
- High Stakes Cash Games: Played in “The Big Game” and online under aliases like “RaiseOnce”
Ivey is especially known for excelling in a variety of poker formats, from Texas Hold’em to Omaha and Seven-Card Stud. His success in high-stakes cash games, particularly in Macau and online, has contributed significantly to his wealth and reputation.
💼 Business Ventures and Legal Controversies
Phil Ivey has ventured into business with his own poker training site, Ivey League, which was active from 2014 to 2017. He has also faced legal battles, most notably involving edge-sorting techniques used in baccarat games at casinos in London and Atlantic City. The lawsuits led to high-profile court cases, resulting in rulings against him despite his claim of using skill rather than cheating.
❤️ Personal Life
Phil Ivey was married to Luciaetta Ivey from 2002 until their divorce in 2009. The couple had no children. He is known for keeping his personal life private, rarely speaking publicly about relationships or family matters.
Outside poker, Ivey enjoys golf, sports betting, and philanthropy. He has supported numerous causes, including education and social justice initiatives.
📱 Phil Ivey in Popular Culture
Phil Ivey’s status as a poker icon has led to appearances in:
- Documentaries like All In: The Poker Movie
- Poker TV shows including High Stakes Poker and Poker After Dark
- Online platforms and apps featuring poker training or promotions
His style, confidence, and mystique continue to inspire new generations of poker players.
📝 Conclusion
Phil Ivey remains one of the most fascinating figures in the poker world. With unmatched success at the tables, a complex personal and legal history, and a lasting impact on the game, his story continues to captivate fans and aspiring players alike. Whether through tournament triumphs or his strategic genius in cash games, Phil Ivey’s legacy is already cemented in poker history.
