Derick Elomina discovered poker at 14, playing home games with his high school friends. What began as a pastime quickly grew into a passion that shaped his career. By 21, he entered the poker industry as a field reporter — just old enough to step foot inside the casino. Starting as a hand reporter, he steadily honed his craft, blending sharp observation with growing writing skills. Known for his dedication, he constantly roams the floor to capture the action, conduct interviews, and deliver live updates. With a strong commitment to the game and a passion for telling poker’s stories, Derick continues to build his path in the industry.

Updated: 2026.01.02

Shankui Li is a Chinese professional poker player who has established a significant presence on the international circuit, particularly within the elite European and Asian tournament scenes. He is currently recognized for his consistent deep runs in high-profile events across Cyprus, Vietnam, and Cambodia.

Career Earnings & Biggest Results

According to The Hendon Mob, Shankui Li has total earnings of $191,056. His career reached a major milestone in 2024 and 2025 as he successfully navigated some of the most competitive fields in global poker.

His career-best live cash occurred in October 2024 at the European Poker Tour (EPT) Cyprus, where he finished 12th in the $10,300 No Limit Hold’em – EPT High Roller for $64,200. He continued this momentum into 2025, recording a 9th-place finish in the Asia Pacific Poker Tour (APPT) Cambodia Main Event for $17,670. Additionally, Li has proven his proficiency in the booming Vietnamese market, securing 7th place in the U Series of Poker (USOP) Grand Finale Championship Event for VND 610,000,000 (∼$24,047).

Biography & Poker Background

Originally from China, where he currently resides, Shankui Li has transitioned from a regional player to a global circuit regular. He crossed the $100,000 career earnings milestone in early 2025, reflecting a period of intense activity and high-stakes success.

His professional trajectory is characterized by his willingness to compete in diverse environments, from the high-stakes rooms of the EPT in the Mediterranean to the aggressive, action-heavy fields of the Asian Poker Tour (APT) and Poker Dream in Southeast Asia. Whether grinding in South Korea, Malaysia, or Vietnam, Li has become a respected figure representing the growing strength of the Chinese poker community on the international stage.

Play Style & Strategy

Li is known for an adaptable and resilient tournament strategy, demonstrating a high degree of comfort in both High Roller and large-field Main Event formats. His results in events like the EPT High Roller and the USOP Championship highlight his ability to compete against world-class professionals in both GTO-heavy and exploitative environments.

He shows a particular proficiency in navigating “Mystery Bounty” and “Turbo” structures, where his understanding of stack dynamics and ICM pressure allows him to consistently reach the later stages of play. This tactical versatility, balanced with the composure required for multi-day championship grinds, makes him one of the most formidable and consistent mid-to-high stakes regulars currently emerging from the Chinese professional circuit.

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