In poker, luck is a significant factor. While skill plays a role in successful poker play, the odds of hitting certain hands are far greater due to luck.
A study by Dr. John Ekeroth of the University of Southern California found that out of 4,753 hands played in 10 major poker tournaments between 2002 and 2005, luck was the predominant factor in determining who won and lost.
While it is impossible to completely eliminate luck from poker play, skilled players can control how much luck they use to their advantage. By understanding the odds of certain hands and playing well within those odds, a player can make more consistent profits over time.
In other words, while luck plays a significant role in poker play, skill is still the key to success.
