Nicknamed the "Brat," Phil is often compared to other bad boys of sports including John McEnroe. He never fails to show his emotions when he has suffered a bad beat or bad call. Many people enjoy watching him play on TV to see what he is going to do next and he rarely disappoints. His aggressive style of play is considered to be somewhat reckless by some; but it has served him well. He has won nine WSOP champion bracelets, a record he shares with Chan and Brunson. One of the most recognizable faces on the tournament circuit he is always mobbed by fans seeking photos and autographs. Even when he has just been eliminated from an event he will take the time to accommodate the fans although they usually get all the details concerning his ouster.