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: 2025.12.20

Yusuke Okada is a Japanese professional poker player who has established himself as a versatile competitor across the major Asian tournament circuits, from the high-stakes rooms of Manila to regional championships in Tokyo.

Career Earnings & Biggest Results

According to The Hendon Mob, his total earnings stand at $53,707. His career-best live cash of $15,000 was achieved at the 2022 World Series of Poker (WSOP) in Las Vegas, where he made a deep run in the Main Event, finishing in 1299th place.

Beyond his American success, he is a familiar face on the Asian Poker Tour (APT) . In September 2018, he secured a 3rd-place finish in the APT Manila CoinPoker High Rollers for PHP 529,400 (~$9,775). More recently, he has continued to find success in the Philippines, recording a 6th-place finish in the Manila Super Series 22 Mini Main Event in June 2025 for PHP 115,000 (~$2,126) and a 10th-place finish at the Manila Megastack 23 Megastack Turbo in December 2025 for PHP 50,000 (~$850). In his home country, he frequently contends for titles at the Japan Open Poker Tour (JOPT) , including a runner-up finish in the Season 21 Grand Final Poker Players Championship.

Biography & Poker Background

Originally from Japan and currently residing in Tokyo, Okada has transitioned from a regional competitor into an international regular. His career began with modest cashes in Macau and Las Vegas as early as 2012 before he became a mainstay in the booming Southeast Asian markets of the Philippines, South Korea, and Vietnam. He is recognized for his longevity in the game, maintaining a steady presence in both open championships and prestigious invitationals like the JOPT Poker Players Championship.

Play Style & Strategy

He is known for a resilient and patient tournament strategy, often excelling in “Monster Stack” and “Deepstack” formats that reward long-term concentration and careful chip accumulation. His ability to navigate massive, diverse fields, ranging from the high-variance environments of Turbo events to the world’s most prestigious marathon in the WSOP Main Event, demonstrates a balanced and adaptable approach. This tactical flexibility has made him one of Japan’s most consistent mid-stakes performers on the global stage.

Recent Attendances