Career
Throughout his career Litvinov battled with Yuriy Sedykh. Litvinov set three world records, the last being 84.14 metres in June 1983. However, Sedykh improved the world record to 86.34 m in 1984 and to 86.74 m at the 1986 European championships.
In 1986 Litvinov threw 86.04 metres which remained his personal best.
This result puts him 3rd on the all-time performer"s list, behind Sedykh and Ivan Tikhon, whom he coaches. Litvinov finished second behind Sedykh and ahead of Jüri Tamm in the 1980 Summer Olympics.
Litvinov"s son Sergey is also an elite hammer thrower.