Whilst many professionals first hear about poker through friends or at their local casino, things were a little different for Dzmitry Urbanovich. His first memories of poker span back to when he was just six years old, gaping glassy-eyed at the poker on television every Friday night without even understanding what was happening. By the time he turned 18 he began playing live events and, at an age where most players are taking their first cautious steps into the game, Dzmitry was already prepped and raring to go.

After wrapping up $83,047 in an online tournament Dzmitry jumped headfirst into the €25,500 High Roller at the EPT Season 11 in Malta and surprised everyone by taking it down for €572,300. The new kid on the block then cashed in another eight tournaments including a total of four wins – making him the first person to win four events at an EPT festival – and second place in the €100,000 Super High Roller for an eye-boggling €1,446,600. Less than a year later, the Polish prodigy would outlast a field of 605 players to win the 2016 EPT Main Event for an additional €561,900. Oh, and in between all that he squeezed in a Breakout Player of the Year accolade at the European Poker Awards.

Scroll down for our Q&A with Dzmitry or to check out his poker stats click here.

What has been your toughest game/tournament?

The $100k shot clock tournament at Aussie Millions 2016 is what comes to my mind first. The field was very packed and I didn’t last long there!

What has been your biggest win so far?

Winning the EPT Dublin Main Event in 2016 for over €560,000.

Do you prefer live or online games?

I like both but definitely play more live!

What would you say the highlight of your poker career has been?

Well, winning EPT Dublin is the most prestigious title I have I believe. But it all has started from EPT Malta 2015 with my $25k HR win followed by three more 1st place finishes in other side events there, so it’s a close call.

What is your top poker tip?

You don’t need to play all the highest stakes. Select your buy-in levels rationally, according to your current skills. Try to play for your own money all the time.

If you could play a game of poker with anyone, who would it be?

I would play it with my grandfather. He spent a lot of time with me and taught me how to play at a very young age.