Born in Moscow, Russia in May of 2000 and raised in the city’s countryside, I first tried alpine skiing, soccer, taekwondo and canoeing as a young child but was drawn to the Russian Pyramid table – a form of billiards played on a six-by-12-foot table – in our family home.
My father invited a Russian Pyramid coach to the house to provide lessons when I was six years old and I was soon enrolled in the instructor’s billiard school.
About me
The Beginning
Although I enjoyed the game, I also struggled to find success due to having a small body and attempting to compete on such a large table. When I was 10 years old, another coach asked if I would like to switch to a different discipline called pool, the American game played on a nine-foot table.
I was immediately hooked on the competitive side of the game and quickly began playing in amateur tournaments in Moscow as well as a couple of official junior events, winning my first junior competition at age 12 and becoming a Russian National team member just two years later.
I was immediately hooked on the competitive side of the game and quickly began playing in amateur tournaments in Moscow as well as a couple of official junior events, winning my first junior competition at age 12 and becoming a Russian National team member just two years later.
Resilience
Resilience
After the sudden and unexpected death of my father when I was a teenager, I began treating pocket billiards not only as a game but also as a means to support my family – spending hours after school each day training.
My first big win on the European scene was in 2015 when I won the pupil’s division in straight pool at the European Championship and the first major professional victory came when I earned first place honors at the EuroTour’s Treviso Open three years later against a field of 256 top European professionals.
My first big win on the European scene was in 2015 when I won the pupil’s division in straight pool at the European Championship and the first major professional victory came when I earned first place honors at the EuroTour’s Treviso Open three years later against a field of 256 top European professionals.
Determination and hard work have defined my journey. Countless hours at the pool table, driven by both passion and necessity, helped me reach the top of the sport. My love for the game, combined with the need to support my family, has pushed me to achieve two World Championships and earn a spot in two Mosconi Cups
What made me stand out
2024 is the pinnacle of my career. This year, I achieved something no player in pool history had done before - the 'Gorst Slam', winning the World Pool Masters, a second World 9-Ball Championship, and the U.S. Open. This historic achievement sets a new standard in the sport, and I am incredibly proud to make my mark on pool history
Overcoming
Challenges
Challenges
Born in Moscow, Russia, I grew up surrounded by sports but was drawn to the pool table. In 2022, following significant global events, I relocated to the United States. Faced with the challenges of adapting to a new environment, I traveled across the country, competing in local events to maintain my skills and earn a living.
The American pool community welcomed me, and I have made this country my home. 2023 was filled with memorable achievements, including wins at the Derby City Classic and a second-place finish at the U.S. Open.
The American pool community welcomed me, and I have made this country my home. 2023 was filled with memorable achievements, including wins at the Derby City Classic and a second-place finish at the U.S. Open.
Asian Fan Base
In 2024, my journey brought me closer to fans worldwide, especially in Asia. During my first visit to Vietnam in 2023, I discovered an enthusiastic fan base and have returned to share unforgettable experiences through exhibitions and fan meetings. My growing popularity in Vietnam and across Asia has been one of the biggest highlights of my career, and I look forward to returning soon.
The Pillars of My Success
The Team that Fuels My Passion
My success wouldn't be possible without the support of family, friends, and sponsors. I am especially grateful to Mike and Vladimir Nikolaev in Russia, Jason and Alan Sword in the United States, and all my coaches and sponsors for their unwavering belief in me. Their support fuels my passion and commitment to the sport every day.
