This hand happened a few weeks ago. A player misremembered his hand, calling it off with 6 high against QQ from a Chinese recreational player, Dr.H, who was heavily criticized for not refunding part of the pot. I covered this hand on my Chinese channel and was not shocked... when 98% of the comments by Chinese viewers strongly expressed they would NOT refund any money and couldn’t see why there is even a debate. As a Chinese American who grew up in the US, I don’t agree with many of their opinions but can understand their reasoning. I can also understand why the thought of a refund didn’t even cross Dr.H’s mind. This is a reflection of some of the differences in our culture and perception, not because Chinese people have no sympathy or morals. Whether it’s the “Euro” or the Asian guy who doesn’t speak English, we all grew up with different customs & beliefs. Everyone may have different interpretations of what’s fair or proper etiquette. Often there’s no ill intent. To keep growing the game & attracting more players internationally, I think it would help to try to be more understanding before jumping to quick conclusions about one’s character.show more

Hi Andy, question for you. What if he misread his hand, called and won with something like ten high because Dr H was bluffing with total air? Would this player collect the pot or say “I misremembered my hand, I would have folded so you take the pot, Dr. H.”

I think the player calling with 10 high would not receive much criticism for keeping the full pot. It’s a grey area depending on the intent of the bet and call. I can understand your point and the other side of the argument as well- players in a friendly environment know it’s fully within the rules to keep the pot. But they also believe it’s better for the game to not penalize an honest, understandable mistake if it’s a rare occurrence.

It’s up to you to know your cards

Yeah I don’t know about the whole no morals ther, but if you are gambling at a poker table and don’t look at your cards and make moves anyways that’s on you. I’ve misread my cards and I certainly didn’t ask for my money back. I’ve been extremely blessed to be a part of a poker community in SF since my cancer that is mostly Chinese dominate, and although many are American Chinese, many are raised Chinese. They have been so kind and supportive. But if someone calls down without checking their cards that’s just poker.

I’m not Chinese either and there’s zero chance I give anyone a refund ever at the poker table. Not sure where that ever became popular

I don’t believe he should’ve gave any money back regardless of stakes. Sometimes mistakes will cost you a lot. We’ve all done it before and even when I’ve done it in friendly Home games they still didn’t refund me out of remorse or pity.

Part of the game is knowing what hand you have. If you don't know or remember, you correctly lost the game.

As someone new to the game, I don’t understand this at all. So, would love someone to explain it! 1) What did he THINK he have to win this? 2) Isn’t checking his cards allowed so “misremembering” shouldn’t be an excuse? 3) How is it his opponent’s responsibility if he does?!

1. He thought he was holding a 5 instead of 6 and that he made trip 5’s (three 5’s) on the turn card. 2. Yes, it’s allowed and he could have checked his cards to avoid this mistake. 3. It’s not his opponent’s responsibility. But some believe his opponent should refund part of the pot, as winning under these circumstances where his opponent made an honest mistake is not in the spirit of the game. The refund would promote the game as a fun and friendly atmosphere for new players.

Just FYI he did refund some of the money.

Thanks Eldar. DGAF just texted me and let me know as well, good to hear.