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: 2026.01.06

Tingjia Cao is a professional poker player from China who has emerged as a high-volume competitor and a rising force within the Asian tournament circuit.

Career Earnings & Biggest Results

According to The Hendon Mob, his total earnings stand at $602,106. Cao’s career reached new heights in 2025 with significant scores across South Korea and Malaysia. His best live cash to date occurred in April 2025 at the Poker Dream 17 Malaysia in Kuala Lumpur, where he finished 3rd in the RM 10,000 No Limit Hold’em Short Deck High Roller for RM 484,000 ($107,620).

He has also demonstrated his elite capabilities in prestigious festivals like the Triton Poker Series . In September 2025, at Triton One Jeju, he secured a 4th-place finish in the $2,000 Nightly No Limit Hold’em for $26,300 and cashed in the $8,000 Main Event for $12,200. Additionally, he showcased strong form at the Asian Poker Tour (APT) Incheon 2025, winning a Super Hyper Turbo event for KRW 8,092,531 ($5,829) and finishing 9th in the Single Day High Roller for KRW 8,370,000 ($6,029).

Biography & Poker Background

Hailing from China, Cao is currently ranked 146th on the China All Time Money List. He has established a reputation for being a relentless traveler on the global circuit, frequently recording results in South Korea, Vietnam, and Malaysia. His ascent has been marked by a significant climb in the Global Poker Index (GPI) rankings, where he sits among the top 30 players in China as of late 2025.

Play Style & Strategy

Cao is recognized for his extreme versatility, consistently competing in various formats including No Limit Hold’em, Short Deck, and Mixed Games. His performance at the Triton One Jeju festival, where he navigated tough high-stakes fields to secure a final table appearance, highlights a sophisticated understanding of short-stack dynamics and final table pressure. Known for a high-frequency approach, his ability to grind through massive festival schedules, often cashing multiple times per week, demonstrates the endurance and tactical adaptability required to succeed in the modern professional game.

Recent Attendances