Vitaly was originally a backgammon and renju champion before establishing himself as a poker professional. He is one of Russia's most prominent players and has a national record of five consecutive final tables in domestic championship events.

His first cash at the WSOP came in 2006, though his first real success came in 2008. He won the $1,500 NLHE event for $629,417 and his first WSOP bracelet. In 2009 he had a fantastic year, winning his second bracelet in the inaugural $40,000 NLHE 40th Anniversary Event for $1,891,018. After another minor cash he also came second in the $10,000 PLO Championship event for $419,832 and also came 4th in the $50,000 HORSE event for $368,812. His results gave him fourth place in the WSOP player of the year standings. With $3,964,058 in live tournament winnings it can't be long before he breaks the $4m mark.

-Nov '09