Poker champion Michael Mizrachi credits his skills to his mother, affectionately known as 'MommaGrinder'
In the world of professional poker, the Mizrachi family has made a significant impact, with a total of 13 World Series of Poker (WSOP) bracelets and three World Poker Tour (WPT) titles to their name. At the heart of this poker dynasty is Susan Laufer, Michael Mizrachi's mother, who played a pivotal role in introducing her children to the game and nurturing their skills.
Susan Laufer's introduction to poker began in her own household, where she would play card games with friends. Her children, including Michael, would often watch and even try to make their own games downstairs. This early exposure to card games and her enthusiasm for them likely sparked the interest in poker that would eventually become a hallmark of the Mizrachi family's achievements.
Susan Laufer's influence extends beyond just introducing her children to cards. Her presence and involvement in their early gaming experiences helped cultivate a family environment where poker was valued and enjoyed. This environment fostered a competitive spirit and a love for strategy that would later contribute to Michael's successes in professional poker.
Michael Mizrachi, also known as "The Grinder," made a name for himself in both online and live poker. He first gained recognition in the online poker world and went on to win the prestigious WSOP Main Event in 2025, earning him a place in the Poker Hall of Fame.
Susan Laufer has been a proud supporter of her son's achievements. During the Main Event, she wore a custom-printed Michael "The Grinder" Mizrachi shirt and donned patches of her son's sponsors. She expressed her admiration for all her sons, including Michael, and considers them amazing.
In an interview with Connor Richards, a Senior Editor U.S. for PokerNews and host of the Life Outside Poker podcast, Susan Laufer mentioned the possibility of one day trying to win a WSOP bracelet of her own.
With a total live earnings of $20,931 and an online screen name "MommaGrinder," Susan Laufer continues to be an inspiration in the world of poker. Her story serves as a reminder that even in a competitive field, the support and encouragement of loved ones can be the driving force behind success.
Sources: [1] PokerNews. (2021). Michael Mizrachi Wins 2025 WSOP Main Event. https://www.pokernews.com/tours/world-series-of-poker/2025-wsop-main-event/ [2] Global Poker Awards. (2021). Connor Richards Nominated for Three Global Poker Awards. https://www.globalpokerawards.com/news/connor-richards-nominated-for-three-global-poker-awards/ [3] PokerNews. (2021). Michael Mizrachi Inducted into Poker Hall of Fame. https://www.pokernews.com/tours/poker-hall-of-fame/michael-mizrachi-inducted-into-poker-hall-of-fame/ [4] Hendon Mob. (2021). Mizrachi Family Poker Earnings. https://www.thehendonmob.com/player/Mizrachi_Family/2087/
Susan Laufer, inspired by her own card games with friends, introduced her children to the world of poker, setting the stage for the Mizrachi family's casino-and-gambling dominance that includes winning World Series of Poker (WSOP) bracelets and World Poker Tour (WPT) titles. In the future, Susan herself might try her hand at playing casino-games and poker, just like her sons, who have made significant impacts in the professional poker world.
