What is Backdoor Draw in poker?

A backdoor draw, also called a runner-runner draw, requires two subsequent cards on both the turn and river to complete a hand. For instance, if you have two spades and the flop contains one, you need two more spades on consecutive streets to hit a backdoor flush. While the probability of hitting is relatively low, around 4.2% for a backdoor flush, these draws add valuable equity to a hand. This often allows for more aggressive play, turning a marginal hand into a profitable semi-bluff, particularly when coupled with other equity or position.

You hold A-K offsuit and the flop is J-8-2 with two hearts. You have a backdoor flush draw if both the turn and river are hearts.

Backdoor Draw (Backdoor Draw) belongs to the Hands side of the game and shows up in almost every hand of Texas Hold'em. If you are just starting out, read the poker rules and the hand rankings first, then come back here. To practise risk-free you can play against our AI right on the site. Ready for a real table? See how to join the club.