JRE #1917 – Fedor Gorst

This podcast features Fedor Gorst, a professional pool player from Russia, discussing his journey in the sport. The conversation touches on various topics, including his early life, his training, the global pool scene, and the differences between the Russian and American approaches to the game.

Provocative topics include the impact of the Ukraine crisis on Russian athletes, the controversial decision to ban Russian pool players from tournaments, and the use of performance-enhancing drugs in the sport. Underlying themes revolve around the dedication and discipline required to excel in pool, the cultural variations in playing styles and approaches to the game, and the challenges of navigating the gambling aspect of pool.

Topics

1. Fedor Gorst’s Background and Introduction to Pool:
   • Gorst started playing Russian pyramid at age 6.
   • He switched to pool at age 8 due to his height.
   • Pool is a smaller sport in Russia, with fewer players and a more structured training system.
   • Gorst’s coach recognized his potential and encouraged him to focus on pool.
2. The Ukraine Crisis and its Impact on Russian Athletes:
   • Gorst was banned from competing in tournaments due to his Russian nationality.
   • The ban was lifted in July 2022.
   • The podcast explores the political implications of the ban, contrasting it with the treatment of Russian UFC fighters.
   • Gorst’s perspective highlights the complexities of navigating international competition during a geopolitical crisis.
3. Gorst’s Rise to the Top of the Pool World:
   • He has achieved significant success, winning major championships like the World Nine-Ball Championship, U.S. Open Pool Championship, and Derby City Classic.
   • His meteoric rise to success at a young age is remarkable.
   • Gorst’s dedication to practice and his commitment to improving his game are evident.
   • The podcast discusses the potential for further growth and development in his game.
4. Gambling in Pool:
   • Gorst is a known gambler, with a significant win of $51,000 in a one-pocket match.
   • The podcast explores the high-stakes nature of gambling in pool, highlighting the risks and rewards.
   • Gorst’s experiences offer insights into the psychology of gambling and the pressure it brings.
   • The topic touches on the addictive nature of gambling and the darker side of the pool world.
5. Pool as a Profession and its Challenges:
   • Gorst discusses the limited opportunities for earning a living as a professional pool player.
   • The podcast highlights the dedication and passion required for those who pursue pool professionally.
   • Gorst’s perspective underscores the allure of the game despite its financial limitations.
   • The conversation explores the difficulty of choosing a career path that may not provide traditional financial stability.
6. The Importance of Coaching and Training:
   • Gorst emphasizes the value of coaching, highlighting the structured approach to pool training in Russia.
   • He attributes his rapid progress to the guidance he received from multiple coaches.
   • Gorst contrasts the training methods in Russia with the more informal approach in the US.
   • The discussion highlights the importance of finding the right coach and adapting to different training styles.
7. The Global Pool Scene and Cultural Differences:
   • The podcast explores the variations in playing styles and approaches to pool across different countries.
   • Gorst discusses the popularity of Russian pyramid in Russia and the differences in table sizes and pocket dimensions.
   • He shares his experiences playing in Europe and the Philippines, highlighting the distinct pool cultures in those regions.
   • The conversation delves into the unique challenges and opportunities presented by these diverse pool environments.
8. The Role of the Break Shot:
   • Gorst emphasizes the importance of the break shot in modern pool games, especially with the use of the magic rack.
   • He discusses the evolution of break techniques and the advantages of a strong break.
   • The podcast explores the strategies employed by players to maximize their break potential.
   • Gorst’s insights reveal the tactical significance of the break shot in determining the outcome of a match.
9. Pool Equipment and Personal Preferences:
   • Gorst discusses his preferences for cues, shafts, and tips.
   • He shares his experiences with different types of shafts, including carbon fiber and fiberglass.
   • The podcast explores the importance of finding the right equipment and the impact it has on a player’s performance.
   • Gorst’s insights demonstrate the individualistic nature of pool equipment choices and the search for optimal performance.
10. Mental Game and Pre-Shot Routine:
    • Gorst emphasizes the mental aspect of pool, highlighting the importance of a pre-shot routine.
    • He shares his own pre-shot routine, emphasizing visualization and mindfulness.
    • The podcast explores the role of mental focus and confidence in pool performance.
    • Gorst’s insights demonstrate the critical role of mental preparation in handling the pressure of competition.
11. Performance-Enhancing Drugs in Pool:
    • Gorst discusses the use of beta blockers in pool, highlighting their potential impact on performance.
    • He acknowledges the controversial nature of this topic and the potential for unfair advantage.
    • The podcast explores the ethical considerations surrounding the use of performance-enhancing drugs in sports.
    • Gorst’s insights raise questions about the need for drug testing and the pursuit of a level playing field in pool.
12. The Impact of Drugs on Pool Players:
    • The podcast explores the impact of drugs on the lives and careers of pool players, sharing stories of addiction and its consequences.
    • Gorst discusses the prevalence of drug use in the pool world, particularly in gambling matches.
    • He shares anecdotes about players who relied on drugs for performance enhancement, highlighting the risks and challenges associated with substance abuse.
    • The topic raises concerns about the need for support and intervention for players struggling with addiction.
13. Pool Legends and Their Impact on the Game:
    • Gorst discusses the legacy of pool legends like Earl Strickland, Efren Reyes, and Willie Moscone.
    • He highlights their contributions to the game and their influence on playing styles.
    • The podcast explores the lasting impact of these iconic figures on the pool world.
    • Gorst’s insights reveal the historical context of the game and the evolution of pool techniques.
14. The Future of Pool and its Growth Potential:
    • Gorst discusses the current resurgence of pool, fueled by online streaming and increased viewership.
    • He expresses optimism about the future of the sport and its potential for growth.
    • The podcast explores the evolving landscape of pool, including the rise of online tournaments and the growing popularity of live streaming.
    • Gorst’s perspectives provide a glimpse into the future of pool and the opportunities for its continued development.
15. Fedor Gorst’s Personal Goals and Aspirations:
    • He focuses on continuous improvement, prioritizing practice and development over specific titles.
    • Gorst acknowledges the allure of becoming world champion but prioritizes his own progress and enjoyment of the game.
    • The podcast highlights the importance of finding personal satisfaction in pursuing a passion.
    • Gorst’s approach to the game suggests a healthy balance between ambition and personal fulfillment.

Memorable Quotes

• “You know, it’s crazy as they didn’t ban UFC fighters. Yeah. We have a lot of Russian UFC fighters. And they don’t even get treated badly. They don’t they don’t get booed. I mean, they go booed. A little bit by small holes. It’s different in every sport like hockey, you know, eventually still playing. You know, there’s a lot of great players in hockey that still play from Russia.”
• “The biggest amount that I ever won was 51,000 from one guy. It was this year. But we it was we we played by the wreck. So we we started off at playing, like, a 1000 a wreck. And then we increase 1000 of rack, one pocket.”
• “It doesn’t really matter how how much you practice. You have these days when you just feel everything. Like Yeah. When everything just comes together, and you just don’t miss.”
• “I’m like I said, I wanted to get Earl on, but he didn’t wanna do it. But I’m like, I think it’d be interesting to talk to you because I just need your journey and just to be such a young guy and to make this trek from come from Russia and come to United States and now live here and play pool.”
• “Pool is one of those things where when you’re it’s it’s one moment. There’s one moment and you’re playing and maybe it’s a race to 12 and it’s 11 to 11. And you and I are playing and I have one shot on the 9 ball and this is for everything.”