SECTION III THE RULES OF PLAY

The Game

Rule 1. The Game

Definitions

All defined terms are in italics and are listed alphabetically in the Definitions section.

1-1 General

The Game of Golf consists of playing a ball with a club from the teeing ground into the hole by a stroke or successive strokes in accordance with the Rules.

1-2 Exerting Influence on Ball

A player or caddie must not take any action to influence the position or the movement of a ball except in accordance with the Rules.

(Removal of loose impediment — see Rule 23-1.)

(Removal of movable obstruction — see Rule 24-1.)

*Penalty for Breach of Rule 1-2:

Match play — Loss of hole; Stroke play — Two strokes.

*In the case of a serious breach of Rule 1-2, the Committee may impose a penalty of disqualification.

Note: A player is deemed to have committed a serious breach of Rule 1-2 if Committee considers that his act of influencing the position or movement of the ball has allowed him or another player to gain a significant advantage or has placed another player, other than his partner, at a significant disadvantage.

1-3 Agreement to Waive Rules

Players must not agree to exclude the operation of any Rule or to waive any penalty incurred.
Penalty for Breach of Rule 1-3:
Match play — Disqualification of both sides; Stroke play — Disqualification of competitors concerned.
(Agreeing to play out of turn in stroke play — see Rule 10-2c.)

1-4 Points Not Covered by Rules

If any point in dispute is not covered by the Rules, the decision should be made in accordance with equity.

THE GAME OF GOLF: GENERAL

1-1/1 Two Balls in Play Simultaneously at Different Holes

Q. Two players on the 8th hole play their approach shots to the 8th green. They agree to tee off at the 9th hole and then putt out on the 8th green. This is to avoid having to walk back up a hill to the 9th tee and to save time. What is the ruling?

A. In match play, the players are disqualified under Rule 1-3 for excluding the operation of Rule 2-1 by failing to play the stipulated round.
In stroke play, the competitors are disqualified under Rule 3-2 for failing to hole out on the 8th hole before making a stroke from the 9th tee.

1-1/2 Player Unaware He Has Holed Out Puts Another Ball into Play

Q. A player, unable to find his ball, puts another ball into play. He then discovers that his original ball is in the hole. What is the ruling?

A. The score with the original ball counts. The play of the hole was completed when the player holed that ball.

1-1/3 Player Discovers Original Ball in Hole After Searching Five Minutes and Then Continuing Play with Provisional Ball

Q. At a par-3 hole, a player, believing his original ball may be lost, plays a provisional ball. He searches five minutes for the original ball and then plays the provisional ball onto the green. At that point, the original ball is found in the hole. What is the ruling?

A. The player’s score is 1. The play of the hole was completed when the player holed the original ball (Rule 1-1).

1-1/4 Player Discovers Own Ball Is in Hole After Playing Wrong Ball

Q. A player played to a blind green and putted what he thought was his ball. He then discovered that his own ball was in the hole and that the ball he had putted was a wrong ball. What is the ruling?

A. Since the play of the hole was completed when the original ball was holed (Rule 1-1), the player was not in breach of Rule 15 for subsequently playing a wrong ball.

Player with Lost Ball Concedes Hole; Ball Then Found in Hole — See 2-4/11.

Player Discovers Own Ball in Hole After Playing Wrong Ball; Opponent Claims Hole and Claim Not Disputed — See 2-5/5.

1-2/0.5 Serious Breach of Rule 1-2

Q. Should the standard for determining whether a serious breach of Rule 1-2 has occurred be the same in match play and stroke play?

A. In deciding whether a player has committed a serious breach of Rule 1-2, the Committee should consider all aspects of the incident. Given the different impact on players in match play and stroke play, it is possible for the same act to constitute a serious breach of Rule 1-2 in stroke play but not in match play. In many cases in match play (e.g. a player who intentionally stops his ball from entering a water hazard), a penalty of loss of hole is sufficient while in stroke play the player should be disqualified for a serious breach. In some cases (e.g., the purposeful act referred to in the first paragraph of the answer in Decision 17-3/2), a penalty of disqualification in match play is appropriate.

1-2/1 Line of Putt Altered Purposely by Opponent or Fellow-Competitor by Stepping on It

Q. An opponent or a fellow-competitor purposely steps on the player's line of putt with the intention either of improving the line (e.g., by pressing down a raised tuft of grass) or of damaging it (e.g., by making spike marks). What is the ruling?

A. In either case, the opponent or the fellow-competitor was in breach of Rule 1-2. The penalty is loss of hole in match play or two strokes in stroke play, unless the Committee decides to impose a penalty of disqualification -- see the penalty statement of Rule 1-2.

In stroke play if the line of putt has been damaged, the player, in equity (Rule 1-4), may restore the line of putt to its previous condition. A player is entitled to the lie and line of putt he had when his ball came to rest. The line of putt may be restored by anyone.

Removed Flagstick Placed on Ground Subsequently Lifted — See 17-1/7.

Removed Flagstick Being Held by Opponent or Fellow-Competitor Subsequently Moved — See 17-1/8.

Opponent or Fellow-Competitor Attending Flagstick for Player Deliberately Fails to Remove It; Player’s Ball Strikes Flagstick — See 17-3/2.

Ball Deliberately Deflected or Stopped on Putting Green by Fellow-Competitor — See 19-1/5.

Removal of Loose Impediments Affecting Player’s Play — See 23-1/10.

Opponent or Fellow-Competitor Removes Obstruction Affecting Player’s Play — See 24/16.

1-2/1.5 Competitor Alters Line of Play of Fellow-Competitor

Q. In stroke play, A's ball is under a partially detached tree branch from which he believes he is entitled to relief without penalty. A calls for a ruling. B, A's fellow-competitor, argues A's case to a member of the Committee and, during the conversation, lifts the branch and improves or worsens A's line of play. What is the ruling?

A. As B's actions were not made with the intention of improving or worsening A's line of play, he is not in breach

1-2/2  Shielding Line of Putt from Wind

Q. May a player lay his golf bag parallel to the line of putt to shield the line from the wind?

A. No. Such procedure would be a breach of Rule 1-2.

[1-2/3 Reserved]

1-2/3.5 Player Repairs Hole After Holing Out But Before Opponent, Fellow-Competitor or Partner Holes Out

Q. After holing out, a player observes that the edge of the hole is ragged. He pats the ragged edge with his hand and smoothes it. Does the player incur a penalty under Rule 1-2 if his opponent, fellow-competitor or partner has not holed out?

A. If the player smoothed the edge of the hole as a courtesy to following players, which seems likely; there is no penalty under Rule 1-2. However, he incurs a penalty under Rule 1-2 if he smoothed the edge of the hole for the express purpose of influencing the movement of the opponent’s, fellow-competitor’s or partner’s ball.

Since the player had holed out, he is not subject to penalty under Rule 16-1a.
If a four-ball competition was involved and the player’s partner had not completed the hole, the partner is subject to penalty under Rule 16-1a — See Definition of “Partner.”

1-2/3.8 Player Jumps Close to Hole to Cause Ball to Drop; Ball Does Not Move

Q. A ball at rest overhangs the lip of the hole. The player jumps close to the hole in the hope of jarring the ground and causing the ball to fall into the hole. The ball does not move. What is the ruling?

A. There is no penalty. Rule 1-2 does not apply to a situation where the player takes an action that does not result in a change in the position of a ball at rest. If the ball had moved, see Decision 1-2/4.

1-2/4 Player Jumps Close to Hole to Cause Ball to Drop; Ball Moves

Q. A ball overhangs the lip of the hole. The player jumps close to the hole in the hope of jarring the earth and causing the ball to fall into the hole, which it does. Is this permissible?

A. No.
If the ball was still moving when the player jumped, the player took action to influence the movement of the ball in breach of Rule 1-2. In match play, he lost the hole. In stroke play, he incurred a penalty of two strokes, and the ball was holed.

If the ball was at rest when the player jumped, it should be assumed that the player caused the ball to move, and he incurred a penalty of one stroke in both match and stroke play under Rule 18-2a and was required to replace the ball.

If it is not possible to determine whether the ball was still moving, it should be presumed to be moving unless it was deemed to be at rest under Rule 16-2.

1-2/4.5 Player Leaves Putt Short and Instinctively Throws Putter at Ball

Q. A player putts and the ball comes to rest just short of the hole. The player then instinctively throws his putter toward the ball, but misses. Should the player incur a penalty for a breach of Rule 1-2 which prohibits taking action to influence the position of a ball?

A. No. See Decision 14/6 which deals with a similar case.
If the putter had moved the ball, the player would have incurred a penalty stroke under Rule 18-2a, and would be required to replace the ball.

1-2/5 Player Putts with One Hand and Catches Ball in Hole with Other Hand

Q. A player whose ball is on the lip of the hole putts with one hand and catches the ball with his other hand after the ball is below the level of the lip of the hole. What is the ruling?

A. The player purposely stopped his moving ball.
In match play, he lost the hole — Rule 1-2.
In stroke play, he incurred a penalty of two strokes and was required to place his ball on the lip of the hole and hole out — Rule 1-2. If he did not do so, he was disqualified under Rule 3-2 for failing to hole out.
In order for a ball to be holed (see Definition of “Holed”), it must be at rest within the circumference of the hole.

1-2/5.5 Player Purposely Stops or Deflects Ball; Where Next Stroke Must Be Played From

Q. A player’s ball lies through the green. After playing a pitch shot up a slope, the player sees his ball start to roll back towards him. He places his club in front of the ball and stops it. The ball would have rolled only a few yards more and remained through the green. What is the ruling?

A. Since the player purposely stopped the ball, he is in breach of Rule 1-2. As the breach was not serious, he would lose the hole in match play or incur a two-stroke penalty in stroke play. In stroke play, he must play the ball from the point where he stopped it with his club.
If the player had purposely deflected the ball but not stopped it, in match play, he would lose the hole. In stroke play, if a serious breach has not occurred, he would incur a two-stroke penalty and must then play the ball from its new position. In stroke play, if a serious breach has occurred, the player is disqualified.

Ball Popped Up Swung at in Disgust — See 14/6.

Ball Overhanging Hole Knocked Away by Opponent Before Player Determines Status — See 16-2/2.

Casting Shadow on Ball Overhanging Hole — See 16-2/3.

Ball Moved by Another Ball After Being Addressed — See 18-2b/11.

Ball Moves Prior to Address and Is Accidentally Stopped by Player’s Club; Player Removes Club and Ball Rolls Away — See 19-2/1.5.

1-2/6 Player Removes Loose Impediment Affecting Lie of Opponent or Fellow-Competitor in Hazard

Q. As a gesture of sportsmanship, a player removes a loose impediment from a hazard, thus improving the lie in the hazard of the ball of his opponent or fellow-competitor. What is the ruling?

A. Under Rule 1-2, the player loses the hole in match play or incurs a penalty of two strokes in stroke play. The opponent or fellow-competitor is not required to replace the loose impediment.

1-2/7 Player Purposely Deflects Partner’s Ball in Motion on Putting Green

Q. In four-ball match play, A and B are playing C and D. All four balls lie on the putting green in five strokes. A lies four feet from the hole and B lies 30 feet from the hole. Player A is standing near and behind the hole with respect to B’s line of putt while B putts. B’s ball goes past the hole and is rolling towards where A is standing. Without waiting for B’s ball to come to rest, A knocks B’s ball back to B. What is the ruling?

A. A and B abandoned B’s right to complete the hole when A returned B’s ball to him after his failure to hole his putt. Such a casual action by A is not contemplated by Rule 1-2 and, in such circumstances, is not a breach of Rule 1-2 or any other Rule. Although Side A-B abandoned B’s right to complete the hole, A may continue to represent the side without penalty.

1-2/8 Player Presses Down Turf as Ball Is Rolling Towards Area

Q. A player’s ball lies through the green at the bottom of a slope. The player makes a stroke and sees that his ball is rolling back down the slope towards the spot from which he just played. Before the ball reaches that spot, the player presses down a raised piece of turf in that area with the intent of ensuring that his ball will not come to rest against the raise piece of turf or in the divot hole. Is the player in breach of Rule 1-2?

A. Yes, as he took an action with the intention to influence the movement of the ball.

If the player had not realized his ball was returning to the area, there would be no breach.

Waiving Turn to Putt in Four-Ball Match — See 30-3c/2.

Player Waives Turn to Play; Circumstances Under Which He May Complete Hole — See 31-5/1.

Other Decisions Relating To Rule 1-2:
Ball Lifted from Putting Green; Ball Replaced While Another Ball in Motion Subsequently Deflects Moving Ball — See 16-1b/3.

Caddie Holds Back Tree Branch to Prevent Branch from Deflecting Dropped Ball —See 20-2a/5.

Caddie Stops Dropped Ball Before It Comes to Rest; When Penalty Incurred — See 20-2c/4.

AGREEMENT TO WAIVE RULES

1-3/0.5 When Breach of Rule 13 Occurs

Q. While walking to the 1st green, A and B agree that for a ball that is out of bounds they will drop a ball at the spot where the ball went out of bounds under penalty of one stroke, even though they know the penalty is stroke and distance. Someone overhears this conversation and advises A and B that they may not make such an arrangement. Neither player has yet hit a ball out of bounds. What is the ruling?

A. A and B are disqualified under Rule 1-3 for agreeing to waive the penalty under Rule 271b.

Even though A and B had not yet acted on the agreement, they were in breach of Rule

1-3 as soon as the agreement was reached during the stipulated round.

In match play, if the players in a match agree to waive the Rules before their stipulated round, they are in breach of Rule 1-3 if either of them starts the stipulated round without having canceled the agreement.

In stroke play, if competitors agree to waive the Rules before their stipulated round, each competitor is in breach of Rule 1-3 if one competitor who was part of the agreement starts his stipulated round without having canceled the agreement. (New)

1-3/1 Players Agree Not to Tee Off in Prescribed Order to Save Time

Q. In match play, A wins the 4th hole. On his way to the 5th tee, he returns to retrieve a club left at the 4th green and suggests that his opponent B play first to save time, which B does. Are the players in breach of Rule 1-3?

A. In order to waive a Rule, players must be aware that they are doing so. Therefore, the answer depends on whether the players knew that the Rules do not allow them the option as to who plays first from the tee.

If the players were ignorant of the Rules, there is no penalty.

If the players were aware of the Rules and agreed not to follow them, they are in breach of Rule 1-3 for agreeing to exclude the operation of Rule 10-1a. However, in these circumstances, the Committee would be justified in waiving the disqualification penalty under Rule 33-7. If the players subsequently agreed to exclude the operation of Rule 10-1a, they should be disqualified.

Competitors in Stroke Play Agree to Play Out of Turn But Not for Purpose of Giving One of Them an Advantage — See 10-2c/2.

1-3/2 Agreement to Concede Short Putts

Q. In a match, the two players agree in advance to concede all putts within a specified length. Is this contrary to Rule 1-3?

A. Yes. The players agreed to exclude the operation of Rule 1-1 and should be disqualified under Rule 1-3. Under Rule 2-4, the only stroke which may be conceded is the “next stroke” and it cannot be conceded in advance.

1-3/3 Player and Opponent or Fellow-Competitor Agree to Repair Spike Marks on One Another’s Line of Putt

Q. A player and his opponent or fellow-competitor agree that they will repair spike marks on one another’s line of putt. Is this a breach of Rule 1-3?

A. Yes. Both would be subject to disqualification for agreeing to waive Rule 16-1a (Touching Line of Putt).

1-3/4 Failure of Players to Apply Known Penalty

Q. In a match, a player discovers at the 2nd hole that he has 15 clubs in his bag contrary to Rule 4-4a, but his opponent refuses to apply the penalty. The extra club is declared out of play and the match continues. The Committee disqualifies both players. Is this correct?

A. Yes. Since the players agreed to waive the penalty, they should be disqualified under Rule 1-3.

1-3/5 Players Unaware Penalty Incurred

Q. In a match, A incurred a penalty stroke under Rule 12-2 for lifting his ball for identification without announcing his intention to B, his opponent. A did not penalize himself and B did not make a claim because neither A nor B was aware a penalty had been incurred. Should the Committee disqualify A and B under Rule 1-3 for agreeing to waive a penalty?

A. No. Since the players were not aware a penalty had been incurred, there could have been no agreement between them to waive the penalty.

Players Unable to Resolve Rules Problem Agree to Consider Hole Halved — See 2-1/1.

Player’s Obligation Re: Lodging Claim — See 2-5/1.

Player and Opponent Agree on Incorrect Procedure; Whether Valid Claim May Be Made After Procedure Followed — See 2-5/8.5.

1-3/6 Marker Attests Wrong Score Knowingly and Competitor Aware Score Wrong

Q. In stroke play, B failed to hole out at a hole. A few holes later he realized he had erred. A, B’s marker and fellow-competitor, was aware both that B had infringed the Rules and that B knew this, but nevertheless he signed B’s card. B was disqualified under Rule 3-2 (Failure to Hole Out). Should A, who knowingly overlooked the breach, be penalized?

A. A should have been disqualified for a breach of Rule 1-3.

Marker Attests Wrong Score Knowingly But Competitor Unaware Score Wrong — See 6-6a/5.

Competitor Seeks Help from Fellow-Competitor to Avoid Penalty — See 33-7/7.

1-3/7 Agreement That Side Losing After 18 Holes of 36-Hole Match Will Concede Match

Q. Prior to a 36-hole match, the players agree that they will play only 18 holes and whoever is behind at that point will concede the match. Is this permissible?

A. No. Both players should be disqualified under Rule 1-3 for agreeing to exclude the operation of a condition of the competition (Rule 33-1).

Wrong Form of Play Used to Decide Which Side Concedes Match — See 2-4/21.

Wrong Form of Play Used in Match-Play Event — See 6-1/1.

Match Decided by Wrong Form of Play by Agreement — See 33-1/4.

Other Decisions Relating To Rule 1-3:
Players Agree to Consider Hole Halved During Play of Hole — See 2-1/1.5.

Two Holes Purposely Omitted in Match — See 2-1/4.

Discontinued Match Replayed Instead of Being Resumed from Where Play Stopped — See 2-1/6.

Handicap Stroke Given at Incorrect Hole in Error — See 6-2a/2.

Competitor Requests That Ball in Position to Assist Him Should Not Be Lifted — See 22/6.

Competitor Refuses to Lift Ball Assisting Play — See 22/7.

Player Who Has Reached Third Round of Match Play Disqualified for Agreeing to Waive Rules in First-Round Match — See 34-1a/1.

EQUITY

1-4/1 Player Distracted by Ball Dropped by Another Player Mis-Hits Ball

Q. As A was making his backswing, B accidentally dropped a ball, which rolled within six inches of A’s ball. The appearance of the dropped ball startled A, causing him to top his shot. In equity, should A be permitted to replay his stroke?

A. No. Distractions are a common occurrence which players must accept.

1-4/2 Ball Adhering to Face of Club After Stroke

Q. A player plays a stroke from wet sand or soil and the ball adheres to the face of the club. What is the ruling?

A. In equity (Rule 1-4), the ball should be dropped, without penalty, as near as possible to the spot where the club was when the ball stuck to it. But see also Decision 14-4/1.

1-4/3 Flagstick Stuck into Green Some Distance from Hole by Practical Joker

Q. A practical joker removes the flagstick from the hole and sticks it into the putting green some distance from the hole. The players approaching the green are unaware of this action and they play towards the flagstick and not the hole. Do the players have the option to replay?

A. No. In equity (Rule 1-4), the players must accept the resultant advantage or disadvantage.

Other Decisions Relating To Rule 1-4:
Player Lifts Ball in Mistaken Belief That Next Stroke Conceded — See 2-4/3.

Putting Out After Concession of Stroke Assists Partner — See 2-4/6.

Player Concedes Opponent’s Next Stroke and Plays Before Opponent Has Opportunity to Lift Ball — See 2-4/8.

Ball-Marker Moved by Opponent’s Caddie Accidentally — See 20-1/7.

Player Plays Away from Hole to Assist Partner — See 30-3f/6.

1-4/4 In Anger Player Strikes Ball Played by Player in Following Group

Q. A is nearly struck by a ball played by a player in the following group. In anger, A hits the ball back towards the group. Has A played a practice stroke or a wrong ball?

A. No. However, in equity (Rule 1-4), A should incur the general penalty of loss of hole in match play or two strokes in stroke play.

1-4/5 Removal of Obstruction in Hazard Would Move Loose Impediment

Q. In a hazard, a player’s ball lies against a movable obstruction. A loose impediment lies on top of the obstruction in such a position that the player cannot remove the obstruction without also moving the loose impediment. The player is entitled to move the movable obstruction under Rule 24-1 but is not entitled to move the loose impediment under Rule 23. What is the procedure?

A. The player may remove the obstruction as authorized by Rule 24-1. As the loose impediment will be moved in the process, in equity (Rule 1-4), the player incurs no penalty and must place the loose impediment as near as possible to the spot where it originally lay. If the player fails to place the loose impediment as required, in equity (Rule 1-4) and in view of the purpose of Rule 13-4, he would lose the hole in match play or incur a penalty of two strokes in stroke play.

Other Decisions Relating To Rule 1-4:

Ball in Bunker Moves Closer to Hole When Obstruction Removed and Ball Will Not Remain at Rest When Replaced; All Other Parts of Bunker Are Nearer Hole — See 20-3d/2.

Loose Impediment Affecting Lie Moved When Ball Lifted — See 23-1/7.

Loose Impediment Affecting Lie Removed While Ball Lifted — See 23-1/8.

1-4/7 Ball Lost in Either Water Hazard or Casual Water Overflowing Hazard

Q. A ball is lost. It is either in a water hazard or in casual water overflowing the hazard. What is the proper procedure?

A. In equity (Rule 1-4), the player must proceed under the water hazard Rule.

1-4/8 Nearest Point of Relief from Cart Path Is in Casual Water; Nearest Point of Relief from Casual Water Is Back on Cart Path

Q. A player’s ball lies on a paved cart path from which he wishes to take relief under Rule 24-2b(i). It appears that the nearest point of relief will be in a large area of casual water which adjoins the cart path and the nearest point of relief from the casual water under Rule 25-1b(i) would be back on the cart path. What are the player’s options?

A. The player may proceed in accordance with Rule 24-2 and then, if applicable, Rule 25-1. He is not entitled to take relief from both the immovable obstruction and the casual water in a single procedure, unless after proceeding under these Rules, the player is essentially back where he started and it is evident that such a procedure is necessary to obtain relief from both conditions.
Therefore, the player should proceed as follows:

(1) He may lift and drop the ball in accordance with Rule 24-2b(i) in the casual water.

(2) He may play the ball as it lies or take relief from the casual water, in which case he would lift and drop the ball in accordance with Rule 25-1b(i).

(3) If the ball when dropped comes to rest in such a position that there is interference by the cart path, he may play the ball as it lies or proceed in accordance with Rule 24-2b(i). If the nearest point of relief is in the casual water, as an additional option, the player may, in equity (Rule 1-4), obtain relief without penalty as follows: Using the new position of the ball on the cart path, the nearest point of relief from both the cart path and the casual water shall be determined which is not in a hazard or on a putting green. The player shall lift the ball and drop it within one club-length of and not nearer the hole than the nearest point of relief, on a part of the course which avoids interference by the cart path and the casual water and is not in a hazard or on a putting green.

If the dropped ball rolls into a position where there is interference by either the cart path or the casual water, Rule 20-2c applies.

The same principle would apply if there was interference from any two conditions, e.g., casual water, a hole made by a burrowing animal, an immovable obstruction, from which relief without penalty was available and taking relief from one condition resulted in interference from the second condition.

1-4/8.5 Nearest Point of Relief from Cart Path Is in Casual Water, Nearest Point of Relief from Casual Water Is Back on Cart Path; Impracticable for Player to Drop Ball Into Area of Casual Water

Q. In the circumstances described in Decision 1-4/8, if the nature of the area of casual water were such that it was impracticable or impossible for the player to drop the ball, when taking relief from the cart path, into the area of casual water, how may the player proceed?

A. If it is impracticable for the player to proceed under one of the two Rules, he may, in equity (Rule 1-4), obtain relief without penalty as follows: Using the position of the ball on the cart path, the nearest point of relief from both the cart path and the casual water must be determined that is not in a hazard or on a putting green. The player must lift the ball and drop it within one club-length of and not nearer the hole than the nearest point of relief, on a part of the course that avoids interference by the cart path and the casual water and is not in a hazard or on a putting green.

It would be considered impracticable for the player to drop the ball in the area of casual water if the casual water were so deep that unreasonable effort would be required to retrieve a ball lying in this area of casual water – see Decision 25-1/1.

Other examples of conditions into which it would be considered impracticable for the player to drop the ball would include:

· In or under an immovable obstruction such that it would be extremely difficult or impossible to drop the ball (e.g., inside a locked building or beneath a rain-shelter that is raised off the ground).

· Within a large hole made by a greenkeeper or similar area of ground under repair from which the player could not reasonably be expected to play a ball.

1-4/9 Bird’s Nest Interfering with Stroke

Q. A player’s ball comes to rest in a bird’s nest or so close to the nest that he could not make a stroke without damaging it. Does the player have any options in addition to playing the ball as it lies or, if applicable, proceeding under Rule 26 or 28?

A. Yes. It is unreasonable to expect the player to play from such a situation and unfair to require the player to incur a penalty stroke under Rule 26 (Water Hazards) or Rule 28 (Ball Unplayable).

In equity (Rule 1-4), as an additional option the player may, without penalty, drop a ball on the nearest spot not nearer the hole that would allow him to make his stroke without damaging the nest.

If the ball lay in a hazard, it should be dropped, if possible, in the same hazard and, if not, in a similar nearby hazard, but in either case not nearer the hole. If it is not possible for the player to drop the ball in a hazard, he may drop it, under penalty of one stroke, outside the hazard, keeping the point where the original ball lay between the hole and the spot on which the ball is dropped.

If it is clearly unreasonable for the player to make a stroke because of interference by anything other than the bird’s nest or if interference from the bird’s nest would occur only through the use of an unnecessarily abnormal stance, swing, or direction of play, then he may not take relief as prescribed above, but he is not precluded from proceeding under Rule 26 or 28 if applicable.

Other Decisions Relating To Rule 1-4:
Lie or Line of Play Affected by Pitch-Mark Made by Partner’s, Opponent’s or Fellow-Competitor’s Ball — See 13-2/8.

Player’s Lie Affected by Sand from Partner’s, Opponent’s or Fellow-Competitor’s Stroke from Bunker — See 13-2/8.5.

Extension of Line of Play Affected When Opponent or Fellow-Competitor Creates Footprints in Bunker — See 13-2/29.5.

Partner’s, Opponent’s or Fellow-Competitor’s Divot Comes to Rest Near Player’s Ball in Bunker — See 13-4/18.

Lie in Bunker Changed by Another Player Taking His Stance — See 20-3b/2.

Lie Changed by Removal of Gallery-Control Stake — See 20-3b/3.

1-4/10 Dangerous Situation; Rattlesnake or Bees Interfere with Play

Q. A player's ball comes to rest in a situation dangerous to the player, e.g., near a live rattlesnake or a bees' nest. Does the player have any options in addition to playing the ball as it lies or, if applicable, proceeding under Rule 26 or 28?

A. Yes. It is unreasonable to expect the player to play from such a dangerous situation and unfair to require the player to incur a penalty under Rule 26 (Water Hazards) or Rule 28 (Ball Unplayable).

In equity (Rule 1-4), as an additional option the player may, without penalty, drop a ball on the nearest spot not nearer the hole that is not dangerous.

If the ball lay in a hazard, it should be dropped, if possible, in the same hazard and, if not, in a similar nearby hazard, but in either case not nearer the hole. If it is not possible for the player to drop the ball in a hazard, he may drop it, under penalty of one stroke, outside the hazard, keeping the point where the original ball lay between the hole and the spot on which the ball is dropped.

If it is clearly unreasonable for the player to make a stroke because of interference by anything other than the dangerous situation or if the situation would be dangerous only through the use of an unnecessarily abnormal stance, swing, or direction of play, he may not take relief as prescribed above, but he is not precluded from proceeding under Rule 26 or 28 if applicable.

Danger from Fire Ants — See 33-8/22.

1-4/11 Meaning of “Dangerous Situation”

Q. According to Decision 1-4/10, a ball lying near a live rattlesnake or bees’ nest is a “dangerous situation” and relief should be granted in equity.

If a player’s ball comes to rest in or near an area of plants such as poison ivy, cacti or stinging nettles, should the provisions of Decision 1-4/10 apply?

A. No. The player must either play the ball as it lies or, if applicable, proceed under Rule 26 (Water Hazards) or Rule 28 (Ball Unplayable).
Decision 1-4/10 contemplates a situation which is unrelated to conditions normally encountered on the course. Unpleasant lies are a common occurrence which players must accept.

14/11.5 Player Wraps Towel Around Self or Places Towel on Cactus Before Taking Stance

Q. A player’s ball lies near a cactus, and to play the ball the player would have to stand with his legs touching the cactus. To protect himself from the cactus needles, the player wraps a towel around his legs before taking his stance. He then plays the ball. What is the ruling?

A. Provided the player does not breach Rule 13.2 (i.e., he takes his stance fairly), there is no breach of the Rules. However, if the player were to place the towel on the cactus, in equity (Rule 14), the player loses the hole in match play or incurs a penalty of two strokes in stroke play. (New)

1-4/12 Player Breaches Rules More Than Once Prior to Stroke; Whether Multiple Penalties Applied

Prior to making a stroke, there may be circumstances where a player breaches a Rule more than once, or breaches different Rules and it would seem that a penalty should be applied to each separate breach. However, in the majority of cases and based on equity (Rule 1-4), it would not be appropriate to apply multiple penalties.

For the purpose of applying the principles in this Decision, Rules 4-3a, 4-3b, 4-3c, 13-4a, 13-4b, 13-4c, 14-2a, 14-2b, 17-3a, 17-3b, 17-3c, 18-2a and 18-2b should be considered as separate Rules.

Below are the specific principles to be applied when determining whether multiple penalties are appropriate when more than one breach has occurred prior to a player making a stroke:

1. Single Act Results in One Rule Being Breached More Than Once -- Single Penalty Applied Example: In stroke play, a competitor's ball on the putting green strikes a fellow-competitor's ball in breach of Rule 19-5 and then strikes another fellow-competitor's ball, also in breach of Rule 19-5. The ruling would be a single two-stroke penalty (see Decision 19-5/3).

2. Single Act Results in Two Rules Being Breached -- Single Penalty Applied Example: In stroke play, a competitor is considering putting his ball from a bunker and rakes a footprint in the bunker on his line of play. Both Rule 13-2 and Rule 13-4a have been breached. The ruling would be a single two-stroke penalty.

3. Multiple Occurrences of Same or Similar Acts Result in One Rule Being Breached More Than Once -- Single Penalty Applied

Example 1: In stroke play, a competitor takes several practice swings in a hazard, touching the ground each time. The ruling would be a single two-stroke penalty (see Decision13-4/3). Example 2: In stroke play, a player removes sand on his line of play through the green and presses down a replaced divot which is also on his line of play. The ruling would be a single two-stroke penalty.

4. Different Acts Result in Two Rules Being Breached, but Breach of Second Rule Is a Direct Consequence of the Initial Breach -- Single Penalty Applied Example: In stroke play, a competitor's ball moves prior to address and while it is in motion it is accidentally stopped by the competitor's club in breach of Rule 19-2. The competitor then moves the club and, therefore, moves his ball, normally a penalty stroke under Rule 18-2a. This would result in a single one-stroke penalty under Rule 19-2 (see Decision 19-2/1.5). If the ball is not replaced before the competitor makes his next stroke, the failure to replace the ball is considered a separate act and he incurs an additional penalty of two strokes under Rule 18-2a.

5. Different Acts Result in Two Rules Being Breached -- Multiple Penalties Applied Example: In stroke play, a competitor (1) touches the ground in a hazard with his club while taking practice swings in a hazard and (2) improves his line of play by bending a shrub with his hand. The ruling would be a two-stroke penalty under Rule 13-4 (touching the ground in a hazard with his club) and a further penalty of two strokes under Rule 13-2 (improving his line of play by moving something growing), giving a total penalty of four strokes (see Decision 13-4/28).

6. Different Acts Result in One Rule Being Breached More Than Once -- Multiple Penalties Applied Example: In stroke play, a competitor (1) purposely steps on another player's line of putt with the intention of improving the line, and then (2) purposely stops his own ball in motion after it began moving without apparent cause before address. The ruling would be two separate penalties, each of two strokes, for breaches of Rule 1-2, giving a total penalty of four strokes.

The following chart summarizes the principles of this Decision:

1-4/13 Player Advised of Breach of Rule; Player Breaches Same Rule Prior to Stroke

Q. In stroke play, a competitor, whose ball lies in a bunker, makes a practice swing and touches the ground in the bunker with his club. His fellow-competitor advises him that his action may be a breach of the Rules. The competitor disagrees and makes several more practice swings prior to making his stroke, touching the sand each time. What is the penalty?

A. As the competitor was correctly advised that touching the ground in the bunker with his club during a practice swing was a breach of the Rules (Rule 13-4b), the third principle in Decision 1-4/12 is not applicable. Therefore, the competitor is penalized four strokes — two strokes for the initial breach and two strokes for all subsequent breaches when the additional practice swings were made.

1-4/14 Player Breaches Same Rule Before and After Stroke

Q. In stroke play, a competitor whose ball lies in a bunker makes a practice swing, touching the ground in the bunker with his club in breach of Rule 13-4. He makes the stroke, but the ball remains in the bunker. Before his next stroke, he makes another practice swing, again touching the ground in the bunker. What is the penalty?

A. The competitor incurs two separate penalties, each of two strokes, for breaches of Rule 13-4, giving a total penalty of four strokes. The third principle in Decision 1-4/12 does not apply in this case as the player made a stroke between the two breaches.

1-4/15 Player Breaches Two Rules with Different Penalties; More Severe Penalty Applied

Q. In stroke play, a competitor is searching for his ball under a tree. He accidentally moves his ball with his foot in breach of Rule 18-2a and, at the same time, breaks a branch, improving the area of his intended swing in breach of Rule 13-2. What is the ruling?

A. The competitor has breached two Rules as a result of a single act. In accordance with the second principle in Decision 1-4/12, the competitor only incurs a single penalty. However, in this case, the Rules that have been breached by the competitor give different penalties (i.e., Rule 18-2a carries a one-stroke penalty and Rule 13-2 carries a two-stroke penalty). In such circumstances, in equity (Rule 1-4), the more severe of the two penalties must be applied and, therefore, the competitor is penalized two strokes under Rule 13-2.
If the same circumstances arose in match play, the player would lose the hole for the breach of Rule 13-2.

Other Decisions Relating To Rule 1-4:

Player Lifts Opponent’s Ball-Marker — See 2-4/5.

Playing Characteristics of Club Changed While Play Suspended; Error Discovered Before Play Resumed — See 4-2/2.

Club Rendered Unfit for Play by Outside Agency or Opponent’s Side — See 4-3/9.5.

Time of Starting; Both Players in Match are Late — See 6-3a/3.

Match Discontinued by Agreement Cannot Be Resumed Until Three Days Later; One Player Wishes to Play on Competition Course Prior to Resumption — See 7-2/10.

Match Discontinued by Agreement on 13th Tee Cannot be Resumed Until Following Day; May Players Play First Twelve Holes Prior to Resuming Match — See 7-2/11.

Player’s Team Mate in Gallery Hits Ball to Green to Show Player Whether Green Will Hold — See 8-1/23.

Advice Given by Team Coach or Captain — See 8-1/24.

Player Places Mark to Indicate Distance for Pitch Shot — See 8-2a/3.

Determination of Honor at Hole Following Disputed Hole — See 10-1a/2.

Competitors Estimate Area of Teeing Ground When One Tee-Marker Missing — See 11-4b/2.

Divots Replaced and Pressed Down in Area in Which Ball Is to Be Dropped — See 13-2/4.5.

Player’s Area of Intended Stance Affected by Another Player’s Stroke — See 13-2/8.7.

Flying Insect in Water Hazard — See 13-4/16.5.

Player Deems Ball Unplayable in Bunker, Announces His Intention to Proceed Under Rule 28a Outside Bunker and Then Rakes Bunker on New Line of Play — See 13-4/35.8.

Ball Thrown into Bounds by Outside Agency and Played; Neither Player Nor Caddie Aware of Action of Outside Agency — See 15/10.

Hole at Which Wrong Ball Played Unknown — See 15-1/3.

Opponent or Fellow-Competitor Attending Flagstick for Player Fails to Remove It; Player’s Ball Strikes Flagstick — See 17-3/2.

Ball Stolen by Outside Agency from Unknown Spot — See 18-1/5.

Ball Lodged in Tree Knocked Down by Outside Agency — See 18-1/9.

Ball Dislodged from Tree; Replacement of Ball Not Possible — See 18-2a/29.

Ball Moved by Fellow-Competitor’s Ball, Neither Competitor Nor Fellow-Competitor Aware of Movement Until After Completion of Hole — See 18-5/3.

Ball Deliberately Deflected or Stopped on Putting Green by Spectator — See 19-1/4.

Ball Deliberately Deflected or Stopped Through the Green by Spectator — See 19-1/4.1.

Ball Deliberately Deflected or Stopped on Putting Green by Fellow-Competitor — See 19-1/5.

Ball Deflected by Player’s Golf Cart Being Pulled by Opponent or Fellow-Competitor Without Player’s Knowledge — See 19-2/6.

Status of Saliva — See 25/6.

Tree Falls onto Fairway During Stipulated Round — See 25/9.5.

Lifting Ball to Determine Whether It Lies in Burrowing Animal Hole — See 25/21.

Ball Dropped from Casual Water in Bunker at Point of Maximum Relief Rolls Elsewhere — See 25-1b/6.

Dropped Ball Embeds; Procedure If Ball Again Embeds When Re-Dropped — See 25-2/2.5.

Lifting Ball to Determine Whether It Is Embedded — See 25-2/7.

Player Makes Several Strokes on Wrong Putting Green — See 25-3/2.

Provisional Ball Not Distinguishable from Original Ball — See 27/11.

Gate in Boundary Fence — See 27/18.

Original Ball Found Within Five-Minute Search Period After Another Ball Dropped; Dropped Ball Played — See 27-1/2.3.

Continuation of Play With Provisional Ball Without Searching for Original Ball — See 27-2b/1.

Caddie Shared by Opponents’ Side in Four-Ball Match Moves Player’s Ball — See 30/2.

Relocating Hole After Ball Already Positioned Nearby on Putting Green — See 33-2b/2.

Player Who Has Reached Third Round of Match Play Disqualified for Agreeing to Waive Rules in First-Round Match — See 34-1a/1.

Player Who Has Advanced in Match Play Is Disqualified for Wrong Score in Qualifying Round — See 34-1b/8.

NOTES

Rule 2. Match Play

Definitions

All defined terms are in italics and are listed alphabetically in the Definitions section.

2-1 General

A match consists of one side playing against another over a stipulated round unless otherwise decreed by the Committee.
In match play the game is played by holes.
Except as otherwise provided in the Rules, a hole is won by the side that holes its ball in the fewer strokes. In a handicap match the lower net score wins the hole.
The state of the match is expressed by the terms: so many “holes up’’ or “all square,’’ and so many “to play.’’
A side is “dormie’’ when it is as many holes up as there are holes remaining to be played.

2-2 Halved Hole

A hole is halved if each side holes out in the same number of strokes.
When a player has holed out and his opponent has been left with a stroke for the half, if the player subsequently incurs a penalty, the hole is halved.

2-3 Winner of Match

A match is won when one side leads by a number of holes greater than the number remaining to be played.
If there is a tie, the Committee may extend the stipulated round by as many holes as are required for a match to be won.

2-4 Concession of Next Stroke, Hole or Match

A player may concede his opponent’s next stroke at any time provided the opponent’s ball is at rest. The opponent is considered to have holed out with his next stroke and the ball may be removed by either side.
A player may concede a hole at any time prior to the start or conclusion of that hole.
A player may concede a match at any time prior to the start or conclusion of that match.
A concession may not be declined or withdrawn.
(Ball overhanging hole — see Rule 16-2.)

2-5 Doubt as to Procedure; Disputes and Claims

In match play, if a doubt or dispute arises between the players, a player may make a claim. If no duly authorized representative of the Committee is available within a reasonable time, the players must continue the match without delay. The Committee may consider a claim only if the player making the claim notifies his opponent (i) that he is making a claim, (ii) of the facts of the situation and (iii) that he wants a ruling. The claim must be made before any player in the match plays from the next teeing ground or, in the case of the last hole of the match, before all players in the match leave the putting green.
A later claim may not be considered by the Committee unless it is based on facts previously unknown to the player making the claim and he had been given wrong information (Rules 6-2a and 9) by an opponent.
Once the result of the match has been officially announced, a later claim may not be considered by the Committee unless it is satisfied that the opponent knew he was giving wrong information.

2-6 General Penalty

The penalty for a breach of a Rule in match play is loss of hole except when otherwise provided.

2/1 Players in Singles Match Accompanied by Third Party

Q. Prior to a singles match between A and B, A stated to B that a third player, C, would be playing with them. B played the match under protest and lost. What ruling should the Committee give?

A. A single is a match in which one plays against another. Since B made a timely claim, the Committee should have awarded the match to B. If B had not protested, i.e., had agreed that C accompany the match, the result of the match would stand as played.

Wrong Form of Play Used in Match-Play Event — See 6-1/1.

Match Decided by Wrong Form of Play by Agreement — See 33-1/4.

2/2 Stipulated Round in Match Play

In all forms of match play other than threesomes and foursomes, a player has begun his stipulated round when he makes his first stroke in that round. In threesomes and foursomes match play, the side has begun its stipulated round when it makes its first stroke in that round.

The stipulated round has ended in match play when all of the players in the match have completed the final hole of the round (although a player may lodge a subsequent claim under Rule 2-5 or correct wrong information under Rule 9-2b(iii)).

2/3 Refusal to Comply with Rule in Match Play

Q. In a match, A requests B to lift B’s ball that is on A’s line of play. B refuses to do so. What is the ruling?

A. In equity (Rule 14), B loses the hole for failing to comply with A’s request to lift his ball under Rule 22-2. (New)

MATCH PLAY: GENERAL

2-1/1 Players Unable to Resolve Rules Problem Agree to Consider Hole Halved

Q. In a match, A putted to within three inches of the hole and then knocked his ball away. B, the opponent, objected. He stated that he wanted A’s ball left by the hole. A and B were uncertain how to resolve the matter, so they agreed to consider the hole halved. Should A and B be disqualified under Rule 1-3?

A. No. There was no agreement to waive the Rules. Rather, the players were ignorant of the Rules.

2-1/1.5 Players Agree to Consider Hole Halved During Play of Hole

Q. In a match, a player and his opponent play their second shots on a par-5 hole. Unexpectedly, neither ball can be found. Rather than proceeding under Rule 27-1, both players agree to a half. Is this permitted?

A. Yes. An agreement to halve a hole being played does not of itself constitute an agreement to waive the Rules.

However, if the players agree to consider a hole halved without either player making a stroke, they should be disqualified under Rule 1-3 for agreeing to exclude the operation of Rule 2-1 by failing to play the stipulated round.

Hole Not Completed by Either Player — See 2-5/3.

2-1/2 Minus or Zero Net Score

Q. In a handicap match, a player entitled to two handicap strokes at a par-3 hole scores a 2 or a hole-in-one. What would be his net score in each case?

A. The player’s net score would be zero (0) if he scored a 2 or minus one (-1) if he had a hole-in-one.
The same would be true in a four-ball stroke play or Stableford competition since scores are calculated on a hole-by-hole basis.

Determination of Honor in Handicap Match — See 10-1a/1.

2-1/3 Hole Inadvertently Omitted in Match; Error Discovered After Match Concluded

Q. The players in a match inadvertently omitted playing a hole. The error was discovered after the match had been played to a conclusion. What is the ruling?

A. The result should stand.

2-1/4 Two Holes Purposely Omitted in Match

Q. The players in a match agreed to omit two holes, i.e., agreed to settle the match over 16 holes. Is this permitted?

A. No. The players are disqualified under Rule 1-3 for excluding the operation of Rule 2-1 by failing to play the stipulated round.

2-1/5 Three Holes Played Out of Sequence in Match

Q. In an 18-hole match, the players by mistake play three holes out of sequence. The error is discovered before the match concludes. What is the ruling?

A. The holes played out of sequence should be disregarded and the match resumed at the proper hole. However, if such procedure would delay the competition, both players should be disqualified unless one of them concedes the match to the other.

2-1/6 Replaying Match When Play Discontinued Instead of Resuming from Where Play Stopped

Q. A match which was all square after 16 holes was discontinued by agreement due to darkness. The match should have been resumed at the 17th hole. However, the players, thinking it was in accordance with the Rules, replayed the match starting at the 1st tee. The result was posted. At that point the Committee became aware of the improper procedure. What is the ruling?

A. The result of the match as replayed should stand. The players were not subject to disqualification under Rule 1-3 because they were unaware that their procedure was contrary to the Rules.

HALVED HOLE

2-2/1 Player Putting for Half Is Given Advice by Opponent

The following is an example of the application of the second paragraph of Rule 2-2:
In a match, A has holed out. As B, A’s opponent, is preparing to putt for a half, A gives B advice as to his line of putt. A would normally lose the hole for a breach of Rule 8-1, but Rule 2-2 becomes operative in these circumstances and the hole is halved.

Player Incorrectly Believing He Has Won a Hole Lifts Opponent’s Ball-Marker; Opponent Had Putt for Half — See 2-4/5.

Player Reporting Wrong Score Causes Opponent with Chance for Half to Pick Up — See 9-2/6.

WINNER OF MATCH

2-3/1 Players Under Impression Match Is Over Later Realize It Was All Square

Q. In a match, A and B left the 18th green under the impression that A had won. They later realized that in fact the match was all square. The matter was referred to the Committee. What is the ruling?

A. Since there was no indication that wrong information had been given, the match stands as played, with A the winner.

Players Mistakenly Believing Match Is All Square After 18 Holes Play Extra Hole Without Claim Being Made — See 2-5/6.

Rightful Winner of Match Makes No Claim and Agrees to Play Extra Holes — See 2-5/7.

Match-Play Finalists Both Disqualified — See 33/3.

True State of Match Not Determinable — See 34-3/5.

2-3/2 Result of Match When Player Dormie and Opponent Concedes

Q. In a match between A and B, A is one up playing the last hole. In the following situations and considering B’s actions, does A win by one hole or two holes?

(i) B is on the green in three strokes but a long way from the hole. A plays his third stroke from the edge of the green and it comes to rest about one foot from the hole. B goes over and shakes hands with A.

(ii) B is on the green in two strokes. A holes his third stroke and B shakes hands with A.

(iii)  A plays his second shot from the fairway onto the green. B’s second shot misses the green and plugs in a bunker. B immediately walks over to A and shakes his hand.

(iv) B is on the green in six strokes but a long way from the hole. A plays his third stroke from the edge of the green and it comes to rest about one foot from the hole. B goes over and shakes hands with A.

(v) A is on the green in two strokes. B plays his third stroke from the fairway onto the green and the ball comes to rest about one foot from the hole. B goes over and shakes hands with A.

A. The handshake between the players is deemed to represent an agreement to concede each player’s next stroke. Accordingly, in situations (i) to (iii), A wins the match by one hole. In situations (iv) and (v), A has won the final hole and wins the match by two holes.

CONCESSION OF MATCH, HOLE, OR NEXT STROKE

2-4/1 Player Concedes Opponent’s Next Stroke and Then Knocks Opponent’s Ball into Hole

Q. A player conceded his opponent’s next stroke and then, in attempting to knock the opponent’s ball back to him, he inadvertently knocked the ball into the hole. The opponent, who had played three strokes prior to the concession, claimed a 3 for the hole. Was the claim valid?

A. No. The player conceded the opponent a 4 for the hole and, at that point, the opponent had completed the hole. It is irrelevant that the player subsequently knocked the opponent’s ball into the hole, whether he did so inadvertently or otherwise.

Opponent’s Ball Knocked Away by Player After Concession Moves Player’s Ball — See 18-2a/18.

2-4/2 Ball Falls into Hole After Concession of Next Stroke

Q. A player’s ball overhung the edge of the hole. After elapse of the time allowed in Rule 16-2, the opponent conceded the player’s next stroke for a 5, after which the player’s ball fell into the hole. What was the player’s score for the hole?

A. The player’s score was 5. It is immaterial that the player’s ball fell into the hole after the opponent had conceded the player’s next stroke. If the opponent had not conceded the next stroke, the player’s score would also be 5 because in those circumstances the player would be deemed to have holed out with his last stroke and he would incur a penalty stroke — Rule 16-2.

Ball Overhanging Hole Knocked Away by Opponent Before Player Determines Status — See 16-2/2.

2-4/3 Player Lifts Ball in Mistaken Belief That Next Stroke Conceded

Q. In a match between A and B, B made a statement which A interpreted to mean that his (A’s) next stroke was conceded. Accordingly, A lifted his ball. B then said that he had not conceded A’s next stroke. What is the ruling?

A. If B’s statement could reasonably have led A to think his next stroke had been conceded, in equity (Rule 1-4) A should replace his ball as near as possible to where it lay, without penalty. Otherwise, A would incur a penalty stroke for lifting his ball without marking its position — Rule 20-1 — and he must replace his ball as near as possible to where it lay.

In Four-Ball Match Player with Putt for Half Picks Up in Error at Suggestion of Opponent Based on Misunderstanding — See 30/5.

2-4/3.5 Stroke Conceded by Caddie

Q. In a match between A and B, B’s caddie purports to concede A’s next stroke, whereupon A lifts his ball. What is the ruling?

A. As a player’s caddie does not have the authority to make a concession, the purported concession is invalid. As A had reasonably believed his next stroke had been conceded, in equity (Rule 14),

A incurs no penalty and must replace the ball. B incurs no penalty; however, had B’s caddie lifted A’s ball, B would have incurred a onestroke penalty under Rule 183b. (New)

2-4/4 Whether Picking Up Opponent’s Ball Is Concession of Next Stroke

Q. In match play, A holes a putt and, thinking he has won the match, picks up B’s ball. B then advises A that he (B) had a putt to win the hole. Did A concede B’s next stroke when he picked up B’s ball?

A. No. A incurred a penalty stroke under Rule 18-3b; B must replace his ball and now has two putts to win the hole.

2-4/5 Whether Lifting Opponent’s Ball-Marker Is Concession of Next Stroke

Q. In a match, A, believing he has won a hole, picks up the coin marking the position of his opponent B’s ball. In fact B had a putt to halve the hole. Should the picking up of B’s ball-marker be considered a concession of B’s next stroke?

A. No. In equity (Rule 1-4), A should be penalized one stroke. Therefore, under the second paragraph of Rule 2-2 the hole is automatically halved.

2-4/6 Putting Out After Concession of Stroke

Rule 2-4 does not cover the question of whether a player may putt out after his next stroke has been conceded. A player incurs no penalty for holing out in such circumstances. However, if the act would be of assistance to a partner in a four-ball or best-ball match, the partner is, in equity (Rule 1-4), disqualified for the hole.

Agreement to Concede Short Putts — See 1-3/2.

2-4/7 Concession of Stroke Refused by Player and Withdrawn by Opponent; Player Then Putts and Misses

Q. In a match between A and B, A putts and his ball comes to rest near the hole. B concedes A’s next stroke. A says: “No. I haven’t holed out yet.” B says: “OK. Go ahead and putt.” A putts and misses. In such circumstances, is the concession invalidated?

A. No. When B conceded A’s next stroke, A had completed the hole. Concession of a stroke may not be declined or withdrawn — see Rule 2-4.

2-4/8 Player Concedes Opponent’s Next Stroke and Plays Before Opponent Has Opportunity to Lift Ball

Q. In a match between A and B, A chips and his ball comes to rest about one foot from the hole. B concedes A’s next stroke. A states that he wishes to lift his ball. However, B proceeds to play his next stroke before A has an opportunity to lift his ball and B’s ball strikes A’s ball. What is the ruling?

A. B deprived A of his right to lift his ball after his next stroke was conceded. In equity (Rule 1-4), B lost the hole, whether or not his ball struck A’s ball.

Ball Resting Against Flagstick; Putt Conceded and Ball Removed Before Player Can Remove Flagstick — See 17-4/2.

2-4/9 Player Concedes Hole After Which It Is Discovered Opponent Had Played Wrong Ball

Q. In a match between A and B, A has made two strokes and the ball with which he made his second stroke out of the rough is on the green. B, having played five, concedes the hole to A. A then discovers that he has played a wrong ball to the green. What is the ruling?

A. A lost the hole (Rule 15-3a) before B conceded it to him. Therefore, B's concession was irrelevant.

2-4/10 Player Concedes Hole After Which Opponent Plays Wrong Ball

Q. In a three-ball match, A loses his ball and concedes the hole to B and C. Subsequently, B plays a wrong ball. Is A’s concession to B binding?

A. Yes.

Player Concluding He Played Wrong Ball When Opponent Misread Number on Player’s Ball Concedes Hole — See 9-2/11.

2-4/11 Player with Lost Ball Concedes Hole; Ball Then Found in Hole

Q. In a match, A played his second shot towards the green but he could not find his ball. He conceded the hole to B, whose second shot was on the green. The following players then found A’s ball in the hole. What is the ruling?

A. Since a player may not concede a hole after conclusion of the hole — Rule 2-4 — A holed out in two strokes and won the hole if he made a claim before B played from the next teeing ground (Rule 2-5). If A did not do so, he lost the hole.

2-4/12 Player Concedes Hole on Basis of Invalid Claim

Q. In a match between A and B, A putts out of turn. B incorrectly claims that A loses the hole for putting out of turn. A protests but concedes the hole. Later, A, having consulted the Rule book, lodges an official protest with the Committee. How should the Committee rule?

A. Although B’s claim was invalid — see Rule 10-1c — A lost the hole when he conceded it — Rule 2-4.

Handicap Stroke Claimed After Hole Conceded — See 6-2a/4.

2-4/13 Implied Concession of Hole Withdrawn

Q. A, unable to find his ball after a two-minute search, suggests to B, his opponent, that they move on to the next hole. A’s ball is then found. A withdraws his suggestion to move on to the next hole and play is resumed. Before A plays his ball, B plays a stroke with a wrong ball. What is the ruling?

A. A’s suggestion amounted to a concession of the hole and B won the hole. Concession of a hole may not be withdrawn — Rule 2-4. B’s actions after A’s concession could not deprive him of a hole already won.

2-4/14 Player Concedes Match Due to Misconception as to Opponent’s Score at Last Hole

Q. In a match, A and B were all square playing the last hole. A had a short putt for a 4. B holed a putt for a 4. A, mistakenly believing that B had holed out in three strokes, shook hands with B, conceded the match and lifted his ball. At that point B told A that he (B) had scored a 4. What is the ruling?

A. A conceded the match. Even if A had not conceded the match, he lost it when he lifted his ball without marking its position and thereby incurred a penalty stroke under Rule 20-1.

2-4/15 Player Concedes Match After Winning It When Opponent Lodges Invalid Claim Regarding Strokes Taken

Q. In a match, A and B were all square playing the last hole. A incurred a penalty without knowing it, and accordingly did not advise B of the penalty. B was aware of what had happened but did not realize it was a breach of the Rules either.

A won the hole and the match, and the result was posted.

Subsequently, a spectator informed B that A had incurred a penalty at the 18th hole. B then claimed the hole and the match, and A conceded the match to B.

Who was the rightful winner?

A. A won the match because a match can only be conceded prior to its conclusion (Rule 2-4).
A gave wrong information when he did not advise B that he had incurred a penalty and would have lost the hole had a timely claim been made — Rule 9-2b(i). However, a belated claim by B was not valid for two reasons:

(1) it was not based on facts previously unknown to B, and

(2) the claim was made after the result of the match was announced — see Rule 2-5.

Agreement That Side Losing After 18 Holes of 36-Hole Match Will Concede Match — See 1-3/7.

Conceding Match to Avoid Disqualification — See 2-1/5 and 33-1/6.

2-4/16 Valid Timely Claim Made After Concession of Match

Q. In a match, A and B are playing the last hole. B is 1 up. A holes out for a 4. B putts from a wrong place and holes the putt for a 4. A congratulates B and concedes the match. Before leaving the putting green, A asks B if he (B) had putted from a wrong place. B acknowledges that he did so. A claims that B loses the hole under Rule 20-7b. Is the claim valid?

A. Yes. Concession of a match is not binding if subsequently a valid claim is timely made. A’s valid claim was made within the time limit in Rule 2-5.

Player Omits Penalty Stroke When Advising Opponent as to Score for Hole; Error Discovered After Match Conceded by Opponent — See 9-2/10.

2-4/17 Player in Erroneous Belief Match Is Over Shakes Opponent’s Hand and Picks Up Opponent’s Ball

Q. In match play, A holes a putt and, thinking he has won the match, shakes hands with B and picks up B’s ball. The referee advises B that he had a putt to win the hole and keep the match alive. Has B conceded the match by his acquiescence in A’s action of shaking hands and picking up B’s ball?

A. No. B was entitled to replace his ball and hole out. Since A incurred a one-stroke penalty under Rule 18-3b, B now had two putts to win the hole.

Player’s Conscious Failure to Correct Opponent’s Misunderstanding of State of Match Results in Opponent Conceding Match When in Fact Player Is Dormie — See 9-2/12.

2-4/18 Defaulting Player Plays Informal Match with Opponent and Wins

Q. B concedes a match to A. A and B then play an informal match and B wins it, 5 and 4. Should the Committee post A as the winner by default or B as the winner by 5 and 4?

A. A should be posted as the winner by default.

2-4/19 Winner of Match Wishes to Default to Beaten Opponent

Q. In match play, A defeats B and then concedes the match to B because he (A) cannot continue in the competition. Is this permissible?

A. No. A won the match. A beaten player may not be reinstated in such circumstances. A should be posted as the winner and, since A cannot continue, A’s opponent in the next round would win by default.
Under Rule 2-4, a side may concede a match at any time prior to conclusion of the match, but not thereafter.

2-4/20 Player Unable to Meet Match-Play Schedule Defaults; Schedule Then Changed and Player Requests Reinstatement

Q. The final matches in a competition were to be played on a Saturday. A was to play B in one match. On Thursday, A defaulted to B, saying that he would be out of town on Saturday.

On Saturday, the course was unplayable and the matches were postponed until the following Saturday. On Monday, A requested that he be reinstated. Should the Committee reinstate A?

A. No. A conceded the match as provided for in Rule 2-4. In the circumstances concession is irrevocable.

2-4/21 Wrong Form of Play Used to Decide Which Side Concedes Match

Q. In a foursome match, the players are unable to arrange a date to play their match within the prescribed time limit for the round. As a result, the players agree to play a singles match between one player from each side in order to decide which side would concede the match in accordance with Rule 2-4. Is this permissible?

A. There is nothing in the Rules of Golf to prohibit players from agreeing to a method of determining which side will concede a match. However, in view of the intention of Rule 1-3 (Agreement to Waive Rules), if players agree to play a match other than in the form prescribed in the conditions of the competition in order to decide which side will concede, both sides should be disqualified under Rule 1-3 for agreeing to exclude the operation of a condition of competition (Rule 33-1).

If the players agree to use some other method which does not involve playing a match to determine which side will concede, such as a putting competition, tossing a coin, etc., they are not considered to be in breach of Rule 1-3.

2-4/22 Players Agree to Concede Holes to Each Other

Q. Before or during a match, A and B agree to concede one or more holes to each other, thereby enabling them, in effect, to play a shorter match. If A and B know that such an arrangement is not permissible, are they subject to disqualification under Rule 1-3?

A. Yes. Although Rule 2-4 allows a player to concede a hole before playing it, an agreement between players to concede holes to each other exceeds this authority as it undermines the principle in Rule 2-1 of playing a stipulated round. Therefore, such an agreement constitutes an agreement to waive the Rules.

Agreement that Side Losing After 18 Holes of 36-Hole Match Will Concede Match — See 1-3/7.

Wrong Form of Play Used in Match-Play Event — See 6-1/1.

Match Decided by Wrong Form of Play by Agreement of Players — See 33-1/4.

DOUBT AS TO PROCEDURE: DISPUTES AND CLAIMS

2-5/1 Player’s Obligation Re: Lodging Claim

In match play, a player may disregard a breach of the Rules by his opponent, provided there is no agreement between the players. There is a difference between overlooking an opponent’s breach and agreement with the opponent to waive a penalty. Rule 1-3 prohibits the latter.

2-5/2 Procedure for a Valid Claim

For a claim to be valid, the claimant must notify his opponent (i) that he is making a claim, (ii) of the facts of the situation and (iii) that he wants a ruling. He must do so within the time required by Rule 2-5. For example, Rule 16-1e prohibits putting from a stance astride an extension of the line of putt behind the ball. In a match between A and B, if A putts from a stance astride an extension of the line and B states “that is not allowed, you are penalized” or “I’m making a claim because of that stroke,” the Committee should consider the claim.

Statements by B such as “I’m not sure that’s allowed” or “I don’t think you can do that” do not by themselves constitute a valid claim because each statement does not contain the notice of a claim, the facts of the situation and an indication that he wants a ruling.

2-5/3 Player Lifts Ball Before Holing Out; Opponent Then Picks Up His Ball Claiming Player Loses Hole

Q. In match play, A’s ball was resting against the flagstick but it was not holed. A, believing he had holed out, lifted his ball without first marking its position. In doing so, A incurred a penalty stroke under Rule 20-1. Since A was not aware that he had incurred a penalty, he did not inform B. B, who had not witnessed A’s actions, played his next stroke. A’s actions were then brought to the attention of B and he picked up his ball, claiming that A’s lifting of his ball entailed a penalty of loss of hole. A and B agreed to continue the match and refer B’s claim to the Committee later. How should the Committee have ruled?

A. The Committee should have ruled that B won the hole. B’s claim was valid since he notified his opponent that he was making a claim, of the facts that gave rise to the claim (A’s lifting of the ball) and that he wanted a ruling (A and B agreed to refer B’s claim to the Committee). Although the penalty for A’s lifting of the ball without first marking its position is one stroke, he lost the hole for giving wrong information (Rule 9-2b) when he failed to inform B before he (B) played his next stroke that he (A) had incurred the penalty stroke.

2-5/4 Player Wins Hole with Own Ball After Playing Wrong Ball; Opponent Lodges Belated Claim

Q. In a match, A and B are all square playing the last hole. A plays a wrong ball in the rough and discovers the error before his next stroke. A and B go back to look for A’s ball without any question being raised as to whether A had incurred a penalty. A’s ball is found. A plays out the hole with his original ball and wins the hole and the match. Several days later B claims the last hole and the match by virtue of the fact that A played a wrong ball.

Is the claim valid?

A. No. A gave wrong information when he did not advise B that he (A) had incurred a penalty — Rule 9-2b(i). However, a belated claim by B was not valid for two reasons:

(1) it was not based on facts previously unknown to B, and

(2) the claim was made after the result of the match was announced — See Rule 2-5.

Player Wins Hole with Wrong Ball; Error Discovered at Next Hole; Opponent Claims Previous Hole — See 9-2/8.

Player Wins Hole with Wrong Ball and Partner Picks Up; Error Discovered at Next Hole; Opponents Claim Hole — See 30-3d/2.

2-5/5 Invalid Claim Not Disputed

Q. In a match, A played a wrong ball to a green and then found his own ball in the hole. His own ball had been holed in three strokes, which was fewer strokes than B had taken. However, B claimed the hole on the ground that A had played a wrong ball. A did not dispute the claim. A lost the match.

Later, A learned that, because he had completed the hole when his own ball was holed and before play of a wrong ball, the play of the wrong ball was irrelevant and he was the rightful winner of the hole in question. A then lodged a claim with the Committee. Was the claim valid?

A. No. Since A did not dispute B’s invalid claim before B played from the next teeing ground, B’s claim stands and B won the hole in question — Rule 2-5.

Player Concedes Hole on Basis of Invalid Claim — See 2-4/12.

Player Concedes Match After Winning It When Opponent Lodges Invalid Claim Regarding Strokes Taken — See 2-4/15.

2-5/5.5 Breach of 14-Club Rule Discovered After Match Concluded But Before Result Officially Announced

Q. On completion of the 14th hole in a match between A and B, A wins by 5 and 4. The players continue the round. After the 16th hole, it is discovered by the players that A has 15 clubs in his bag.

Before the result of the match has been officially announced, B reports the facts to the Committee and asks for a ruling. Is the claim valid?

A. Yes. Although the players had left the putting green of the last hole of the match, B’s claim is based on facts previously unknown to him and he is deemed to have been given wrong information by A (Rule 9-2b(i)). The players must return to the 15th hole and resume the match. A is penalized under Rule 4-4a and is three up with four holes to play.

2-5/6 Players Mistakenly Believe Match Is All Square After 18 Holes and Play Extra Hole Without Claim Being Made

Q. In a match between A and B, A is 1 up after the prescribed 18 holes. However, both A and B believe the match is all square. So they play extra holes and B wins at the 20th hole. The error is then discovered. What is the ruling?

A. Since A did not make a claim before either player played from the tee at the 19th hole, the match must be considered all square at that point. Thus, B was the winner.

Players Under Impression Match Is Over Later Realize It Was All Square — See 2-3/1.

2-5/7 Rightful Winner of Match Makes No Claim and Agrees to Play Extra Holes

Q. In a match, A and B are all square going to the 18th hole. On completion of the 18th hole, B states that he has scored 7; A states that he (A) has scored 6. A and B go into the clubhouse under the impression that A has won the match. At that point B tells A that, on reflection, he (B) believes A scored 7 at the 18th hole. On recounting, A acknowledges that he had a 7.

By agreement, A and B resume the match; A wins it at the 20th hole and the result is posted.

That night, B discovers that, because A gave wrong information after completion of the 18th hole, under Rule 9-2b(iii) he (B) was rightfully the winner of the 18th hole and the match. B reports the matter to the Committee and claims the match. What is the ruling?

A. The match stands as played, with A the winner.
B’s claim was not made within the time limit in Rule 2-5. B’s claim would have been valid if he had refused to play extra holes or had played the extra holes under protest.

2-5/8 Status of Valid Claim If Players Accept Wrong Ruling from Someone Not on Committee and Continue Match

Q. In an 18-hole match between A and B, A’s ball strikes the flagstick which was attended by B. A and B believe that a loss-of-hole penalty is incurred but they are in doubt as to which one of them incurs the penalty. Accordingly, before teeing off at the next hole, they agree to refer the matter to the Committee later.

At the conclusion of 18 holes, A and B agree that if B incurred a loss-of-hole penalty at the hole in question, the match is all square; if A incurred it, B has won the match by two holes. A and B seek a ruling from X, who is not on the Committee. X incorrectly advises A and B that B incurred the penalty and that the match is therefore all square.

A and B accept X’s ruling, play extra holes and A wins.

Subsequently, the incident was brought to the attention of the Committee. What should the Committee do?

A. When A and B accepted X’s incorrect ruling, they, in effect, settled the doubt themselves and, after A and B began playing extra holes, the Committee was no longer entitled to consider a claim. The match stands as played, with A the winner.

Valid Timely Claim Made After Concession of Match — See 2-4/16.

2-5/8.5 Player and Opponent Agree on Incorrect Procedure; Whether Valid Claim May Be Made After Procedure Followed

Q. In a match, a player’s ball comes to rest on an artificially-surfaced road. He is uncertain if the road is to be treated as an immovable obstruction or an integral part of the course. He asks his opponent and they agree that the player should treat the road as an immovable obstruction. The player drops the ball in accordance with the procedure under Rule 24-2b and plays it. Prior to playing from the next tee, the opponent discovers that he and the player were wrong as the Committee had introduced a Local Rule declaring the road to be an integral part of the course and, therefore, the player was not entitled to take relief under Rule 24-2b. The player should have incurred a loss of hole penalty under Rule 18 for lifting his ball without authority and failing to replace it. May the opponent claim the hole?

A. No. The claim must not be considered by the Committee because the opponent and the player agreed that the player was entitled to relief under Rule 24-2b. When this agreement was reached, there was no longer a doubtful or disputed point and there was no basis under Rule 2-5 for making a claim.
The players were not in breach of Rule 1-3 as they believed at the time they were proceeding properly.

Players Unaware Penalty Incurred — See 1-3/5.

Extra Stroke Taken by Mistake in Handicap Match; Status of Late Claim — See 2-5/13.

2-5/9 Player Agreeing with Opponent That Hole Was Halved Later Realizes He Has Won Hole; Player Then Makes Claim

Q. In a match between A and B, at the 16th hole A scored 6 and B scored 5. When leaving the putting green, B commented to A: “A half?” and A replied: “Yes.”

A won the match at the 20th hole and the result was posted. Later, B realized that he had won the 16th hole and, if the mistake had not been made, he would have won the match 1 up.

A admitted that he had made a mistake. B reported the matter to the Committee and claimed the match. Is the claim valid?

A. No. The match stands as played, with A the winner. After the result of the match was posted, the claim by B could have been considered only if A had knowingly given wrong information as to the number of strokes he (A) had taken at the 16th hole — see Rule 2-5.

2-5/10 Player Accepting Erroneous Claim Disputes It After Result Announced

Q. In a match, A was in breach of a Rule. Although the penalty for a breach of the Rule in question was only one stroke, B, his opponent, claimed that A lost the hole. A did not dispute the claim. B won the match and the result was posted. Three days later, A protested to the Committee that B had misinformed him with respect to the Rules. What is the ruling?

A. The match stands as played. Under Rule 2-5, no claim may be considered after the result of a match has been announced unless the opponent knowingly gave wrong information. Incorrect information on the Rules is not wrong information. It is up to each player to know the Rules.

2-5/11 Wrong Information Given After Play of Last Hole; Claim Made After Result Announced

Q. In a match, A and B came to the last hole all square. After completion of the hole, A stated that he had scored 9 and B stated that he (B) had scored 8, making B the winner, 1 up. The result was recorded by the Committee.

A few minutes later, a spectator told A that B had scored 9 at the last hole. B reviewed the hole and acknowledged that he had made a mistake and that his actual score was 9. What is the ruling?

A. The match stands as played, with B the winner. Under Rule 2-5 no claim may be considered after the result of a match is announced unless wrong information has been given knowingly.

2-5/12 Imposition of Penalty by Referee After Any Player in Match Has Played from Next Tee

Q. In match play, may a referee penalize a player for a breach of a Rule at a hole if he does not become aware of the breach until someone in the match has played from the next teeing ground?

A. Yes, unless the facts giving rise to the penalty were known to the opponent.

2-5/13 Extra Stroke Taken by Mistake in Handicap Match; Status of Late Claim

Q. Prior to the start of a handicap match, the two players correctly advised one another as to the handicaps to which they were entitled. However, during the match, A, by mistake, took a stroke to which he was not entitled at a certain hole. The error was discovered several holes later. Could B, the opponent, then claim the hole in question?

A. No. A late claim would not be valid unless it was based on facts previously unknown to B and B had been given wrong information by A. In this case A did not give B wrong information as to the number of strokes to which he was entitled during the round, and it was B’s responsibility to know the holes at which handicap strokes were to be given (see Note under Rule 6-2). The hole in question stands as played.

Player and Opponent Agree on Incorrect Procedure; Whether Valid Claim May Be Made After Procedure Followed — See 2-5/8.5.

2-5/14 When Match Result “Officially Announced”

Q. Rule 2-5 prohibits a Committee from considering a claim after the result of a match has been “officially announced,” except in cases where a player knowingly gave wrong information. When is the result of a match “officially announced?”

A. It is a matter for the Committee to decide when the result of the match has been “officially announced” and it will vary depending on the nature of the competition. When an official scoreboard exists, Rule 2-5 should be interpreted so that the recording of the winner of the match on the official scoreboard is the official announcement of the result of the match. In such cases where a referee has been assigned by the Committee to accompany a match, any announcement of the result of the match by the referee on the final putting green is not the official announcement. However, there may be cases where an official scoreboard is not used, in which case the Committee must clarify when it considers the result “officially announced.”
In some cases the official scoreboard will be a prominent structure and in other cases it might be a sheet of paper in the golf shop or locker room. The Committee is generally responsible for recording the winner’s name on the scoreboard, but there may be times when the Committee charges the players with this responsibility.

Other Decisions Relating To Rule 2-5:
Player with Lost Ball Concedes Hole; Ball Then Found in Hole and Player Claims Hole — See 2-4/11.

Second Ball Played in Match Play; No Claim Made — See 3-3/9.

Wrong Handicap Used in Match by Mistake; Error Discovered After Result Officially Announced; Status of Claim by Opponent — See 6-2a/5.

Match Discontinued by Agreement Due to Rain; One Player Subsequently Wishes to Resume; Opponent Refuses on Ground Course Unplayable and Makes Claim — See 6-8a/6.

Player Omits Penalty Stroke When Advising Opponent as to Score for Hole; Error Discovered After Match Conceded by Opponent; Opponent Lodges Claim — See 9-2/10.

Doubt Whether Ball Moved by Outside Agency; Opponent Lodges Claim — See 18-1/4.

In Foursome Side Drives for Three Holes in Wrong Order and Then Claim Is Made — See 29-2/2.

Committee Does Not Penalize Player in Breach of Pace of Play Condition Believing Player Had Already Lost Hole — See 34-3/2.

Rule 3. Stroke Play

Definitions

All defined terms are in italics and are listed alphabetically in the Definitions section.

3-1 General Winner

A stroke-play competition consists of competitors completing each hole of a stipulated round or rounds and, for each round, returning a score card on which there is a gross score for each hole. Each competitor is playing against every other competitor in the competition.

The competitor who plays the stipulated round or rounds in the fewest strokes is the winner.

In a handicap competition, the competitor with the lowest net score for the stipulated round or rounds is the winner.

3-2 Failure to Hole Out

If a competitor fails to hole out at any hole and does not correct his mistake before he makes a stroke on the next teeing ground or, in the case of the last hole of the round, before he leaves the putting green, he is disqualified.

3-3 Doubt as to Procedure

a. Procedure
In stroke play, if a competitor is doubtful of his rights or the correct procedure during the play of a hole he may, without penalty, complete the hole with two balls.
After the doubtful situation has arisen and before taking further action, the competitor must announce to his marker or a fellow-competitor that he intends to play two balls and which ball he wishes to count if the Rules permit. If he fails to do so, the provisions of Rule 3-3b(ii) apply.
The competitor must report the facts of the situation to the Committee before returning his score card. If he fails to do so, he is disqualified.
b. Determination of Score for Hole
(i) If the ball that the competitor selected in advance to count has been played in accordance with the Rules, the score with that ball is the competitor's score for the hole. Otherwise, the score with the other ball counts if the Rules allow the procedure adopted for that ball.(ii) If the competitor fails to announce in advance his decision to complete the hole with two balls, or which ball he wishes to count, the score with the original ball counts, provided it has been played in accordance with the Rules. If the original ball is not one of the balls being played, the first ball put into play counts, provided it has been played in accordance with the Rules. Otherwise, the score with the other ball counts if the Rules allow the procedure adopted for that ball. Note 1: If a competitor plays a second ball under Rule 3-3, the strokes made after this Rule has been invoked with the ball ruled not to count and penalty strokes incurred solely by playing that ball are disregarded.
Note 2: A second ball played under Rule 3-3 is not a provisional ball under Rule 27-2.

3-4 Refusal to Comply with a Rule

If a competitor refuses to comply with a Rule affecting the rights of another competitor, he is disqualified.

3-5 General Penalty

The penalty for a breach of a Rule in stroke play is two strokes except when otherwise provided.

STROKE PLAY: GENERAL

3/1 Disqualification in Play-Off

Q. A competitor in a stroke-play play-off incurs a penalty of disqualification. Does the disqualification apply to the play-off only or to the entire competition?

A. The disqualification applies only to the play-off.

3/2 Competitors Play Two Holes Not Included in Stipulated Round

Q. In stroke play, the stipulated round was 16 holes, i.e., the 13th and 14th holes were omitted. After play of the 12th hole, one group elected to play the 13th and 14th holes without counting their scores for those holes. They then completed the round. What is the ruling?

A. The stipulated round consists of playing the holes of the course in the sequence prescribed by the Committee — see Definition of “Stipulated Round.” These competitors were in breach of the conditions of the competition and the Committee should in this case impose a penalty of disqualification under Rule 33-7.

3/3 Stipulated Round in Stroke Play

In all forms of stroke play other than foursomes, a competitor has begun his stipulated round when he makes his first stroke in that round. In foursomes stroke play, the side has begun its stipulated round when it makes its first stroke in that round.

In individual stroke play, the competitor’s stipulated round has ended when he has completed play of the final hole of that round (including correction of an error under a Rule, e.g., Rule 15-3b or Rule 20-7c). In foursomes or four-ball stroke play, the stipulated round has ended when the side has completed play of the final hole of that round (including correction of an error under a Rule).

3-2/1 Fellow-Competitor’s Ball Knocked from Lip of Hole by Competitor Not Replaced

Q. In stroke play, a competitor concedes his fellow-competitor a short putt and knocks the ball away. The fellow-competitor lifts his ball, does not replace it as required by Rule 18-4 and plays from the next tee. What is the ruling?

A. The fellow-competitor is disqualified — Rule 3-2.