#1917 - Fedor Gorst
NaN minutesEpisode #1917
Fedor Gorst is a professional pool player whose career highlights include championship wins at the World Nine-Ball Championship, U.S. Open Pool Championship, and the Derby City Classic.
www.fedorgorst.com
Episode Timestamps
Russian Pool Player's Journey to International Success and Challenges Faced
- Russian pool player discusses his background and early start in the game
- Obstacles faced due to political bans on Russian athletes in international tournaments
- Insights into the pool subculture, including gambling and competitive dynamics
Cultural Contrasts in Pool Training Methods and the Global Perception of the Sport
- Comparison of pool training approaches in different countries like Russia and the US
- Exploration of the sport as entertainment in the US versus a serious sport in Russia and other countries
- Discussion on elite athletes from Russia in combat sports and the influence of Russian training methods
Russian Sports Discipline and Transition to Pool
- Discussion on the disciplined approach of Russian sports coaching
- Transition from playing the pyramid game to pool
- Importance of early coaching and development of good fundamentals in billiards
Billiards Fundamentals and Playing Styles
- Comparison between snooker, pyramid, and pool games
- Emphasis on perfecting fundamentals in snooker and pyramid
- Variety in playing styles and techniques among pool players
Reviving Interest in Pool and Early Career Beginnings
- Discussion about the fluctuating popularity of pool in America and efforts to bring it back
- Personal anecdotes about self-sponsorship and receiving unexpected sponsorships at a young age
- Introduction to European tournaments and the pivotal role of sponsors in career development
Moscone Cup, Cultural Impact, and Player Recognition
- Insights into the Moscone Cup event and its unique team dynamics between Europe and the United States
- Reflection on the impact of cultural backgrounds on opportunities within the sport
- Recognition of top players, tournament competitiveness, and the diversity of winners in elite pool competitions
Impression of Earl Strickland and Fan Interaction
- Joe Rogan discusses his impression of Earl Strickland and the fan interaction that followed
- Details about Earl Strickland's eccentricities and unique behaviors in the pool world
- Reflections on being a fan of Earl Strickland and the admiration for his skills in pool
Pool Player Relationships and Cue Equipment Discussions
- Conversation about relationships between pool players and the necessity of partners understanding the nature of the game
- Discussion around cue equipment preferences including keel wood shafts, carbon fiber, and cue extensions
- Reflections on the personalization and diverse preferences in cue selection among pool players
Evolution of Pool Cues and Cue Weight Preferences
- Discussion on the evolution of pool cues from fiberglass to wooden shafts
- Importance of cue weight and millimeter preference for players
- Anecdote about finding the right cue at a tournament and its impact on performance
Physical Fitness and Back Health in Cue Sports
- Conversation on the impact of physical fitness on cue sports performance
- Exercises and practices for strengthening the lower back and addressing scoliosis
- Reference to professional players' physical challenges and surgeries related to playing cue sports
Yoga, Gym, and Training for Pool Performance
- Discussion about using yoga and stretching for scoliosis treatment
- Exploration of specific training programs for pool performance
- Insight into the practice routines and physical fitness requirements in pool
Pool Break Strategies and Equipment Innovations
- Analysis of break shots and their impact on gameplay
- Discussion on equipment such as break rack thing and its benefits
- Insight into rule variations and referee involvement in racking balls
Influence of Substances on Pool Players' Performance
- Discussion about the impact of amphetamines on pool players' performances in the past
- Comparison of playing pool under the influence of marijuana versus amphetamines
- Increased sensitivity and touch enhancement mentioned as effects of marijuana on performance
Evolution of Pool Play and Player Skill
- Appreciation of the increasing skill level of current pool players
- Comparison between modern and old school pool play highlighting advancements
- Acknowledgment of the impact of Filipino players on pool, especially in kicking techniques
Playing Conditions and Distractions in Philippines Pool Matches
- Description of playing conditions in the Philippines with distractions like smoking, selfies, and people moving around during matches
- Use of powder on the rails to keep the cue ball moving smoothly in humid conditions
- Adaptation to imperfect playing conditions leading to skilled strokes and gameplay
Gambling Strategies and Substance Use in High-Stakes Pool Matches
- Discussion on tactics used in high-stakes pool matches including distractions and deceptive moves
- Insight into substance use like Adderall and cocaine in gambling scenarios for prolonged focus and energy
- Stories of players using drugs like amphetamines leading to adverse effects and addiction
The Tale of Water Dog and the Hard Times Tournament
- Water Dog's exceptional gameplay and aura while under the influence of heroin
- Joe Rogan recounts encountering Water Dog at the Hard Times tournament in Bellflower
- A story of not providing heroin to Water Dog for the tournament and the subsequent outcome
The Mental Aspect of Pool Playing and Pursuit of Glory in Sports
- Discussion about the mental aspect of playing pool and the role of meditation
- Insight into the challenges faced by pool players living hand to mouth
- Appreciation for disciplines like pool and wrestling driven by the love for the game rather than monetary gains
Reflections on Pursuing Pool vs. Other Career Paths
- Discussion on the realization of pursuing careers with limited financial prospects like pool playing
- Comparison of personal experiences in martial arts competitions to the challenges faced in pool playing
- Exploration of evolving opportunities in pool due to online streaming and emerging events
Goals and Challenges in Professional Pool Playing
- Description of the speaker's relentless practice and dedication to pool playing in various locations
- Aspirations for official events and constraints related to travel authorization and green card
- Consideration of future plans including potential US citizenship for professional commitments
The Life of Professional Pool Players and the Hustling Culture
- Discussion about a book called Playing Off the Rail which showcases the life of pool hustlers and professional players
- Anecdotes about hustling at different locations and the risks involved in the pool gambling subculture
- Reflection on the admiration for the unique characters in the pool hustling world
Contrast in Pool Playing Cultures between Europe and the US
- Comparison of gambling culture in pool between Europe and the US
- Description of the more professional approach to pool playing and practice in Europe
- Examples of European players like Niels Fine and their approach to the game
Tournament Play vs. Gambling Matches
- Player expresses preference for tournament play due to its structured lifestyle and safety
- Discussion on top players gambling during live streams and turning it into a format resembling tournaments
- Comparison of shorter matches versus longer races in tournaments for fairness and player skills
Bar Table Tournaments and Cultural Differences
- Insight into bar table tournaments, including the Calcutta gambling system
- Description of the vibrant and sometimes challenging atmosphere in bar table pool rooms
- Comparison between playing on different table sizes and the impact on player participation in the US versus Europe