Rules of Golf that are Misinterpreted or Ignored
Rules of Golf that are Misinterpreted or Ignored
By Brian Hughes, PGA Master Professional, Keiser University College of Golf Instructor
Historically, the rules of the game of golf have been perplexing to many golfers. In many cases, this is because they’ve been passed down by those who are unaware of the true guidelines. This year, after the United States Golf Association (USGA), has undergone its largest rule modification ever, the confusion and lack of understanding have heightened.
While I am an advocate for rules being modified for different levels of players, if those players compete, confusion reigns even more.
So how do we solve the problem? Just like eating an elephant, we’ll take one small bite at a time and point out a few rules that golfers of all levels may not understand or ignore, hopefully eliminating some confusion along the way.
- Giving advice is a penalty: Whether you ask for advice or give it, helping out another golfer with swing tips, club recommendations, or playing suggestions is against the rules. It is supposed to be an INDIVIDUAL game.
- Play the ball as it lies: Moving a ball that is in play and at rest to your advantage is not something a “true” golfer does. Again, for a beginner, I encourage it but don’t tell me what a great score you had and then say you played “preferred lies” (which may be the most ironic term in the game).
- Grounding one’s club in a bunker is still illegal: The new change this year allows grounding the club in the sand if leaning on it or to prevent falling. It does not permit digging a trench behind the ball to make getting the ball on the green easier.
- The ‘My ball is lost, I’ll just throw one down here’ action is a violation: If your ball is lost (or out of bounds) your only option is to play again from where you hit the last one. Your options are to hit a provisional ball or, as a new alternative, look up the new local rule suggested for use by the United States Golf Association (USGA). I’m not doing all your work for you. Please view the great video explanation on their website.
- ‘Gimmies,’ a common occurrence, are not legal: In match-play ONLY, you may concede your opponent’s next shot. If you are not playing match-play, putt it out.
- Resolving issues during the round: When presented with a questionable situation, the USGA requires competitors to play a second ball, keep score for both balls, and confirm the rule at the end of the round with an official. Begging for forgiveness instead of permission may work with your spouse, but not while playing professionally on the course.
If you’d like to study with Brian Hughes and other PGA Master Professionals, contact the College of Golf today.
