Antes in Tournaments
See the strategic effects.
Read guide →Ante — Poker Definition
Ante: a forced contribution added to the pot before voluntary betting. Tournament structures may collect antes from each player or use a big blind ante.
Why it matters
Antes increase the amount of dead money available to win, changing stealing, calling and defending incentives.
Rules vary
The size, posting method and treatment of missed antes depend on the event. Verify the tournament structure you are playing.
Related reading
Blind Pressure
Understand forced-bet pressure.
Read guide →Last updated: August 26, 2026 · Publisher: Double Up Poker