Sorry, djnpa_30, it doesn't work that way. His poker accomplishments are great however HE sets himself up for this criticism when he chooses to continue to be a jerk. Do you think his agent/manager is telling him to chill? No way. Phil knows that he'd be just another goofy looking white guy playing poker if he kept his emotions in check. He plays up this a-hole image because he knows it sells books and keeps people talking about him. 2500 people at the WSOP final in 2004 and Phil gets the TV time he does because ESPN knows he'll be a jerk. You are correct in your observations about most of the people on this board but Phil made his own bed and regardless of his accomplishments, he'll forever be known as a jerk because of his manner. He is probably comfortable with this because (again) it sells books. BTW - I've heard the same thing about him and cash games. They guy is a great tournament player but when you have to rely on tournament income solely, you can't have a good attitude.