Concise explanations, applied cases and up‑to‑date interpretations of the rules.
Following the October 25, 2026 Genesis Championship, the 2027 DP World Tour full-card threshold is the Race to Dubai top 100, not top 110. Nos. 101–110 receive Category 18 conditional membership. Here is what also changes for Q-School and HotelPlanner Tour.
The October 21 feedback deadline has passed, but three proposed elite-only equipment conditions remain unapproved. Here's what 317 yards, 239 microseconds, a shorter club limit and the 2030 ODS timeline actually mean.
The Link Hong Kong Open offers one place at the 155th Open in St Andrews. The highest finisher who makes the cut and is not already exempt earns it—even if that golfer is not the tournament winner.
What to say before the second shot, how to handle the search and how to count the score. A practical guide to decisions on the course.
Future Champions Golf and Costa Rica's federation unveiled four qualifiers for January–April 2027. Two players per age division will earn places at FCG's junior worlds; detailed event rules remain pending.
The R&A confirms a last-chance qualifier for The Open at St Andrews. The official tracker lists 12 July 2027 and one final berth, but the 2026 event's entry criteria must not be assumed to apply unchanged.
TGL has expanded team rosters from four to five golfers for 2027, while match lineups stay at three. How retention, selection order and the league's first trade work.
DP World Tour confirms Eliot Baker's 2027 card and seven partner-tour exemptions. A guide to the WAGR requirements, 20-event minimum and the 2027 ranking cycle.
A player gets reasonable time to reach the ball, followed by a maximum of 10 seconds to see whether it falls into the hole.
The R&A's 2027 Open criteria distinguish 60- and 55-year age limits for past champions. A separate LIV Golf ranking exemption is not yet confirmed.
The LPGA has moved the 2026 Q-Series Qualifying Stage in Venice, Florida, to Nov. 3–6. The 72-hole format and top-55-and-ties advancement rule remain in place, with Final Qualifying set for Nov. 19–23.
A ball in an underground culvert is not necessarily in a penalty area just because red stakes mark the creek outside it.
A player can theoretically incur three penalty strokes on one shot, but using a nonconforming club or ball results in disqualification.
Golfers are not required to search for their original ball after deciding to continue with a provisional ball. But if another player finds a ball that may be theirs, they must identify it.
PGA Tour has approved eligibility for its 2028 two-tier system. What the top-90 rule means, how 2027's top 95 qualify, and when the last-chance series begins.
PGA of America’s September 9, 2026 ruling gives the U.S. team a 31-event Ryder Cup qualifying race in 2027, with fixed position-based points instead of earnings-based scoring, six automatic places and six captain’s picks.
Shaun Norris found himself in one of golf’s strangest rules situations during the final round of the Nexo Championship after kicking away a replaced divot while preparing for his approach. The breach of Rule 8.1a(3) changed his score on the hole from 4 to 6 and ultimately dropped him from a share of the lead to a tie for seventh.
Rules Guy tackles a common question about measuring drops: can you leave your headcover on your club? Find out what the Rules of Golf say about this nuanced situation.
Broadcaster Mike Tirico shared a humorous story about his proximity to Bryson DeChambeau's controversial penalty at The Open Championship. Serving as a spotter, Tirico himself narrowly avoided becoming entangled in the incident.
A golf enthusiast modified his putter with an alignment sticker to improve his aim, but questioned if it adhered to the game's rules. The Rules Guy breaks down the specifics.
Rules Guy clarifies what's permissible when preparing for a putt. Learn how rule changes since 2019 have affected the ability to clear your putting line.
The Rules Guy tackles a question from a young golfer about whether a ball is still in play after bouncing off an out-of-bounds marker and remaining within the course boundaries. We break down the nuances.
Many golfers misunderstand what their handicap truly measures. GOLF.com's author clarifies the most common myths surrounding the Handicap Index, from its calculation to its real-world meaning.
Finding a ball in the hole after declaring it lost is a rare scenario. Rules Guy provides a definitive guide on how the Rules of Golf handle this peculiar situation.
In the deciding moments of The Open Championship, Scottie Scheffler found himself at the center of a bizarre rules situation. A decision to stop searching for his ball led to a significant rules break and a more advantageous position.
Bryson DeChambeau's two-shot penalty at The Open Championship ignited a debate far beyond the rules, highlighting a deeper conflict between individual players and golf's institutions. His manager's defense, stating DeChambeau is 'not a cheater,' underscores the escalating tension.
R&A Chief Executive Martin Darroch reiterated that Bryson DeChambeau's two-shot penalty at The Open was a 'clear-cut' decision from a rules perspective, despite the ensuing controversy. Darroch also confirmed he has not received a call from President Trump regarding the incident.
The controversial penalty assessed to Bryson DeChambeau at The Open Championship has created a logistical ripple effect, disrupting the tournament schedule and causing frustration among players. Marco Penge shared his thoughts on the situation, highlighting how it impacted the third-round tee times.
The R&A's two-stroke penalty against Bryson DeChambeau for a Rule 8.1a infraction sparked widespread debate. Author Michael Bamberger argues the incident was more than just a technical violation; it was a clear message to the entire golf community.
The final steps of Bryson DeChambeau's Friday evening at The Open went exactly as he would have wanted. While in contention, he signed autographs and took selfies, but the preceding two hours had completely thrown the tournament on its side due to a controversial ruling.
Bryson DeChambeau's social media accounts posted messages that appear to signal the two-time major winner will play the third round of The Open Championship after a rules controversy on Friday. This comes after he was penalized two strokes, casting doubt on his weekend status.
Bryson DeChambeau was assessed a two-stroke penalty during the second round of the 2026 Open Championship for violating Rule 8.1b. We break down the incident that sparked widespread debate.
The R&A assessed Bryson DeChambeau a two-shot penalty after his second round at The Open for "inadvertently improving the area of his intended swing." The decision dropped him from solo second to a tie for fifth, sparking debate among golf experts.
A controversial ruling at Royal Birkdale saw Bryson DeChambeau assessed a two-stroke penalty for improving his lie, casting doubt on his continued participation in The Open Championship.
Thick fog rolling in off the ocean at the Renaissance Club forced a suspension of play during the third round of the Scottish Open, but the timing of the delay raised questions. J.J. Spaun noted conditions on the first hole were 'borderline' long before the official stoppage, shedding light on the nuances of golf's rules regarding visibility and when play should be halted.
In golf, where every detail matters, even accidental actions can lead to complex rules situations. What should you do when your playing partner accidentally hits your ball, which you had begun to consider lost?
Legendary instructor Butch Harmon shared his thoughts on how to solve golf's distance issue, calling Masters champion Jose Maria Olazabal's idea to limit the number of clubs in play the 'most interesting' approach.
What should you do if your divot is blocking your next shot? Our golf rules expert explains how to handle unexpected situations on the course.
Golfers often find themselves in tricky situations, especially when strong trees stand in their way. The question of whether it's legal to lean on a tree for support while hitting intrigues many. Let's explore the rules surrounding this and what is essential to know.
A unique rule during the 2026 U.S. Open caught champion Jim Furyk off guard, revealing that players can practice on the previous green during a delay. This surprising revelation not only stumped him but also other pros in the commentary booth.
On Wednesday morning, golf's governing bodies announced new plans to manage distance in the sport. Four organizations signed a joint statement indicating that the rollback of the golf ball will be implemented not in phases, but from January 2030.
Sometimes the Rules of Golf can be tricky. What do you do if the nearest point of relief for an obstruction is out of bounds (OB)? The Rules Guy breaks down this common quandary.
In golf, rules often put players in awkward situations. What should you do if your ball lands near an unpleasant discovery? Rules Guy explains.
An awkward lie in a greenside bunker at the U.S. Women’s Open led to a two-stroke penalty for Lottie Woad. The professional golfer struggled to establish a stance, ultimately resulting in a rules infraction.
Golf legend Jack Nicklaus expressed skepticism about the effectiveness of proposed golf ball rule changes, calling them 'insignificant' and potentially insufficient to address the issue of increasing hitting distances.
Have you ever wondered if it's possible to record two scores while playing two balls? Check out the expert's insights on why this isn't allowed according to golf rules. The article discusses how to score and the limitations that come with it.
The USGA has launched a pilot phase for Rules AI, an artificial intelligence tool integrated into the GHIN app. This technology aims to provide golfers with an accurate and streamlined way to find answers to their rules questions, drawing from the USGA's extensive knowledge base.
Golf's resident rules expert clarifies the nuances of partner positioning during a stroke, referencing official rules and examples from professional tournaments.
The debate over golf ball rollback rules is heating up, with one player reportedly using a ball that conforms to future standards. Experts weigh in on the potential divisions and what's at stake for the sport.
When your ball is near a man-made object in the rough, questions arise about whether you can take free relief. This discussion about a ball resting near a granite slab is relevant for many golfers.
South African golfer Garrick Higgo incurred a two-stroke penalty for arriving late to the tee at the PGA Championship, yet still managed a respectable score.
Garrick Higgo faced a harsh penalty at the PGA Championship after arriving at his tee time just one minute late. The rules of golf are unforgiving, and even a minor delay can come with a significant cost.
Rules Guy clarifies why the 'hockey method' of ball placement is not allowed and the penalties involved. Learn the correct procedure for 'preferred lies'.
Playing under "preferred lies" (also known as winter rules) is a common practice in golf, especially when weather or course conditions are poor. But how do such rounds affect your handicap? We delve into the rules of the World Handicap System (WHS).
If you pick up a forgotten club on the course and place it in your bag, does it count towards your 14-club limit? "Rules Guy" explains the intricacies of Rule 4.1 and provides a clear answer.
Many golfers mistakenly believe that a sprinkler head on their line of play automatically grants free relief. We clarify the nuances of Rule 16.1 and the role of local rules in golf.
What happens if your golf ball accidentally hits a lawnmower and bounces out of bounds? Golf rules experts explain why, despite no penalty for the contact with the outside object itself (Rule 11.1), you still incur a penalty for the ball going out of bounds (Rule 18.2b) and must replay the shot with a one-stroke penalty.
Augusta National chairman Fred Ridley has emphatically reaffirmed the club's stance on limiting golf ball distance, stating that "failure's not an option." This declaration highlights the critical importance of the issue for preserving the integrity of golf and calls for joint action from all stakeholders.
Mistakenly marked your playing partner's ball instead of your own? We delve into the intricacies of golf rules and find out if there's a penalty for it.
On Friday at the Valero Texas Open, Jordan Spieth showcased his mastery of golf rules, getting a beneficial drop due to fire ants, which significantly improved his lie and potentially saved him from missing the cut.
What to do if you accidentally improve your lie while identifying your ball in thick grass? We analyze the nuances of the Rules of Golf and how to avoid a penalty.
Golf carts are essential but require responsible use. Learn basic golf cart etiquette to protect the course, maintain the pace of play, and ensure an enjoyable experience for everyone.
If your ball is stuck in a bunker lip, can you get free relief? The answer depends on whether the ball is touching sand. Learn the intricacies of Rules 16.3 and 12.1 to avoid penalties and act correctly on the course.
The stroke index on golf holes is not just random numbers. A complex system of rules and recommendations, designed to ensure fair play with handicaps, lies behind their distribution. From the triad system to the influence of local knowledge, learn how golf courses determine where players need extra strokes most.
In the world of golf, rules can be tricky. Our Rules Guy explains whether you need to declare a provisional shot before hitting it and what to do if balls are unmarked.
What should you do if your ball ends up inside a wrapper? Can you remove it without incurring a penalty? The Rules Guy provides the answer to this common golfer's dilemma.
If you hit a tee shot that you don't want to look for, can you just re-tee your next shot? Golf rules experts explain what to do in such a situation.
In golf, there are situations where recreating the original lie of the ball is impossible. What should you do in such cases? 'Rules Guy' has the answer.
What do you do if your group mistakenly hits tee shots toward the wrong fairway? Can you re-tee without penalty? Rules Guy has the answer.
What should you do if your ball plugs in a bunker and taking your stance causes it to move? Golf rules experts explain the correct course of action in such situations.
The question of whether you can place your ball in the first cut when playing preferred lies is a common one among golfers. Experts clarify the correct approach in such situations.
A question that intrigues many golfers: is it permissible to use a ball without visible markings? The rules provide a clear answer.
The PGA Tour announced six new rule changes effective in 2026. These changes aim to enhance the game and resolve contentious issues. Discover what prompted these modifications.
Who would have thought that the question of where to stand during someone else's putt would become the most-read topic in 2025? Yet, that's exactly what happened!
If you find yourself with a possible ricochet, is it permissible to test the ball's bounce before hitting the shot? Rules Guy has the answer.
Music on the golf course is allowed if it does not disturb others. Using a sweater as a flagstick hanger is also permitted if it doesn't affect play. Read more about golf rules on our website.
Wyndham Clark surprised at the Hero World Challenge by making an impressive birdie from the water thanks to a new rule. More on the website.
Rory McIlroy encountered a banana peel on his path to victory in Australia. The incident did not prevent him from finishing the round with a score of 68 strokes, remaining in 24th place. More details on the website.
Unusual case on the course: a divot stopped the ball. Violation or not? Experts explain that it does not lead to a penalty if the course is not damaged. Details in the article.
Moving range balls on the course—violation or not? Our expert explains: if balls are not used for practice but only removed, it's not a rule violation. Learn more about rules 5.5a and 15.2 on our website.
Did you know that the use of the slope feature on rangefinders is banned not only in professional but also in amateur tournaments? At the CJ Cup Byron Nelson, golfer Davis Riley was penalized for violating this rule. Read more on the website.
On a golf course, a player from the group behind hit a ball into a removed flagstick. No penalty, but impatience may be noted. Learn more about flagstick situations and how to avoid penalties on the course.
Colt Knost, ex-PGA Tour player and CBS Golf analyst, aims to return to amateur status after 18 years as a professional. His decision has sparked debate, but Knost is not alone: other examples include Jack Nicklaus's son and John Peterson. Learn more about the return to amateur status.
Golfer John Getch faced an unusual situation at a tournament: a dog took his ball. Thanks to rule knowledge and the dog's owner, the incident was resolved without penalties.
A tournament incident has raised questions about marker use rules on the green. Moving the marker before a putt caused doubts about the legality of such actions. Rules 14.1 and 4.3 state that the marker should not be used as an aid for the swing. Read more about the rules and compliance on our website.
Cursing on the golf course can relieve tension or be inappropriate. The Etiquetteist offers tips on distinguishing the two. Remember to consider your surroundings and the situation: among friends, more is permissible than with strangers or children. Details on the website.
Can you smoke a cigar on the golf course? Find out how cigar use can affect the rules of the game. Learn more on our website.
Golfers must apply rules correctly in unusual situations to avoid penalties and ensure fair play during tournaments.
An extraordinary ruling at the Sanderson Farms Championship showcased the nuances of golf rules in a bunker situation.
Recent days have seen significant changes in golf rules, including a reduction in PGA Tour membership and new initiatives aimed at developing the sport. These measures are designed to enhance competitiveness and accessibility for a broader range of players.
In 2025, significant changes were implemented in golf rules, including updates in ball testing, local rules, and modernization of amateur status.
In 2023, updates to the golf rules came into effect, aimed at simplifying the game and adapting to modern technologies. Let's take a look at the key changes.
In 2023, R&A and USGA introduced several significant changes to golf rules aimed at simplifying the game and enhancing its accessibility. These include modifications for players with disabilities and clarifications regarding the use of flags and holes.
In January 2023, the updated Rules of Golf, developed by R&A and USGA, came into effect. Key changes include the integration of modified rules for players with disabilities and simplification of rule language for better understanding.
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