The Golf Channel for Golf Lessons
Rules Guy breaks down how wrong-ball penalties in match and stroke play really work – walking you through the different procedures, who’s liable, and exactly how your score can be affected so you can avoid costly mistakes and play with confidence
Rules Guy: A homeowner tossed my wayward ball back – is my shot still in play? Our golf-rules expert breaks down when a homeowner (or bystander) can legally return your ball, what penalties – if any – might apply, and when a damaged ball must be replaced so you can get back to your round
Rules Guy probes whether ‘volcano’ cup repairs can be made without penalty. Officials weigh intent and method as players seek quick fixes; rulings could affect tournament results.
Rules Guy tackles a common on-course dilemma: when preferred lies are in play, can you leave a club‑length marker on the ground while you make a stroke? Course officials lay out the local‑rule limits and spell out the penalties you could face for giving-or receiving-improper assistance
Rickie Fowler withdrew from the WM Phoenix Open due to illness, tournament officials confirmed. He left before the second round, citing health concerns; his status for upcoming events remains uncertain.
Rules expert answers whether a player may treat a provisional that lands at gimme length as the ball in play and abandon the original wayward tee shot. Clarifies conditions and penalties under the official Rules.
Golf’s Rules Guy: Relief Confusion on Cart Paths
A hot topic has emerged among golfers about free relief when parts of a cart path are marked as a penalty area. Normally, players can take free relief from cart paths, but things get tricky when sections are designated as penal zones. According to the USGA, if your ball lies within a marked penalty area, free relief is off the table. This ruling has stirred up lively debate about the clarity of the rules. Experts recommend that players get well-acquainted with these details to avoid costly misunderstandings on the course. For a deeper dive, visit: https://golflessonschannel.com/rules-guy-when-parts-of-the-cart-path-are-marked-as-a-penalty-area-can-you-still-take-free-relief/
In the world of golf, a common question arises: can you intentionally align your ball when replacing it off the green? The “Rules Guy” is here to set the record straight! While you’re allowed to mark and replace your ball, deliberately lining it up is a no-go according to the rules. Grasping these nuances is essential for maintaining fair play on the course
In a recent inquiry, golf enthusiasts were eager to uncover the truth about a common question: can players clean their balls after they roll into areas designated as “ground under repair”? The Rules Guy steps up to clarify, highlighting that players are indeed allowed to clean their balls, as long as they adhere to the established regulations. So, no need to worry—just make sure you’re following the rules!
