Mike Gorodinsky: From Poker Enthusiast to WSOP Champion

Mike Gorodinsky, a seasoned poker player, recently won his third bracelet at the World Series of Poker (WSOP).

Gorodinsky shared his thoughts on the new WSOP venue, noting that while the food and space have improved, parking remains a challenge. He also mentioned that this year was the first time he played in the WSOP tournaments every day.

Born in Saint Petersburg, Russia, Gorodinsky moved to Israel and then to the United States with his family. His father is a physicist, and his mother, originally from Ukraine, worked as a gynecologist before moving to the U.S. The family relocated to the U.S. in 1991 or 1992 when his father got a job at the University of Saint Louis.

Gorodinsky's parents expected a lot from him academically, but he found it easier to adapt due to his age and quick learning of English. He started playing poker after watching Chris Moneymaker's victory on ESPN and began playing seriously during his final years at the University of Washington in Saint Louis.

Gorodinsky's first bankroll was earned through online PLO cash games, which he treated as just another computer game. His parents were initially against his poker career but changed their minds after seeing his success and financial contributions.