Your playing partner taps down spike marks on the green before putting, is that allowed? Women & Golf’s rules expert Sheila Waltham explains.
By Sheila Waltham
During a match, Player A taps down spike marks on the putting green along the line of their putt. Is this allowed?
Yes. This rule changed in 2019. A player can repair damage to the putting green by taking reasonable actions to restore it to its original condition eg repairing pitch marks, spike marks, dents caused by the flagstick, animal tracks etc. but does not allow “repairs” to natural imperfections, aeration holes or natural wear (Rule 13.1c)