Rules questions and rulings
The R&A / USGA · 2023Protect your rights without delaying play, using the correct competition procedure.
Match play and stroke play differ
Do not delay play unreasonably while seeking help. In match play, notify the opponent of a ruling request in time, normally before anyone starts the next hole; different deadlines apply on the final hole or to newly discovered facts. The alternative-ball procedure is unavailable in match play. Players may agree a ruling, but must not knowingly agree to ignore an applicable rule or penalty.
Uncertainty in stroke play
Before making a stroke after uncertainty arises, a player may choose to finish with 2 balls. Announce which should count if allowed, and report the facts to the Committee before returning the scorecard, even if the scores match; failure to report means disqualification. This differs from a provisional ball. Referee and Committee rulings are binding; the rules limit when incorrect rulings can be corrected.
Sources & approach ↗