Women & Golf’s rules expert Sheila Waltham explains who can declare a ball unplayable.
In a stroke play competition, Player A’s ball comes to rest in a patch of thick heather. Upon assessing the situation, Player A declares her ball unplayable. However, Player B, observing the lie, disagrees and argues that the ball isn’t in significant trouble, suggesting it could easily be played out with a wedge. Player B insists that since the ball is not severely obstructed, Player A should not be allowed to declare it unplayable.
Given this disagreement, what are the rules that apply in this situation? Who has the authority to make the final decision regarding the unplayable ball, and what steps should be taken next according to the Rules of Golf?
Quite simply, Player B is penalised.
- Player A is the ONLY person who can decide if their ball is unplayable and penalty relief can be taken anywhere on the course except in a penalty area (Rule 19.1)
- Player B has given “advice”. Her remarks were intended to influence player A in how to play the hole. Player B receives the General Penalty (2 strokes in stroke play, loss of hole in match play).
Golfers vary considerably in their abilities. A ball that is playable for a scratch player, could be impossible for the skillset of a high handicap golfer. Some players are good at playing shots with their non-dominant hand, others couldn’t contemplate such a shot. It is the player’s decision as to whether she will play the ball as it lies.