Phil Ivey Brings 'Surreal' Moment to ClubWPT Gold Freeroll

Phil Ivey was among the players who took a seat in the ClubWPT Gold $5M Invitational Freeroll, much to the delight – and terror – of his tablemates.

The energy in the Encore ballroom about five minutes before the $5 million ClubWPT Freeroll Invitational kicked off Friday morning was an odd combination of excitement, anxiety, and discomfort. Real first date vibes.

A number of players were in their seats early, excited to experience a World Poker Tour event for the first time. Of the nearly 1,500 players, some were paying the first live tournament ever. Some were playing their first tournament ever – live or otherwise.