Russian Pool Champion Fedor Gorst Becomes Team USA Star
Team USA’s pool team has made a remarkable addition with the inclusion of Russian world champion Fedor Gorst. At just 25 years old, Gorst is currently the No. 1 ranked pool player globally, holding prestigious titles such as two 9-ball world championships and the US Open. His journey to representing the United States was catalyzed by significant geopolitical events and personal choices that reshaped his career.
Gorst’s path shifted dramatically in February 2022 after the International Olympic Committee imposed a ban on Russian athletes following the invasion of Ukraine. This led to his suspension from major competitions and prompted him to expedite a planned trip to the US. He ultimately settled in southern Indiana with his then-girlfriend, Kristina Tkach, the top-ranked female pool player, and their manager, Jason Sword.
In the years following his relocation, Gorst gained a green card and began competing under the American flag, a decision backed by Matchroom Sport, the primary tournament operator in pool. This move came amid rising tensions reminiscent of the Cold War, yet Gorst quickly endeared himself to the American pool community. “This is where he’s living. This is where he’s most comfortable,” said Mike Panozzo, publisher of Billiards Digest, highlighting Gorst’s integration into the team.
The Mosconi Cup, an annual competition where the US faces Europe, is one of the most anticipated events in the pool calendar, attracting about 3,000 fans each year. Team USA, having struggled in recent years, losing 13 of the last 15 competitions, hopes Gorst will help bridge the talent gap.
Gorst’s competitive approach is marked by a blend of intensity and precision. His performances at the US Open exemplify this, as he won his first five matches with relative ease, showcasing his skill and flair. Off the table, he has cultivated a significant social media presence, with over 700,000 followers, sharing insights into his life and training through platforms like YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram.
His journey began in Moscow, where he was introduced to pool at a young age. Initially playing Russian pyramid, Gorst transitioned to pool after his father, who owned a table, suggested he focus on a game better suited to his developing skills. Following the sudden death of his father when he was 14, Gorst committed himself to the sport, aspiring to support his family through pool.
Gorst’s rise was meteoric; by 17, he had won the Junior World 9-Ball Championship, followed by the 9-Ball World Pool Championship in 2019. However, his career faced disruption with the geopolitical ban, leading to his move to the US. Gorst’s first major competition back was the US Open in 2022, where he initially competed under a neutral flag.
While his move to Team USA has garnered mixed reactions, it has been largely seen as beneficial for the sport. “It’s good for pool, it’s good for Fedor, it’s good for the US,” Panozzo stated, emphasizing the potential for Gorst to elevate the profile of American pool.
Gorst’s participation in the Mosconi Cup in 2023 marked a historic moment, though it ended in disappointment for Team USA with an 11-3 defeat. Fans chanted “not born in the USA,” a reminder of his origins. Despite this, Gorst remains focused on his goals, including increasing financial stability within the sport. “Financial motivation was always the biggest motivator for me,” he admitted.
As Gorst continues to compete, he faces the challenge of maintaining his position on a team where every spot is valuable. His recent performances indicate resilience; he reached the finals of the 9-Ball World Championship in Saudi Arabia and the US Open but fell short in both competitions.
Looking forward, Gorst aims to solidify his legacy while navigating the complexities of being a high-profile athlete in a sport striving for relevance in mainstream culture. With significant tournaments and opportunities on the horizon, Gorst’s journey within American pool is just beginning.
