Page type: Glossary / definition
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Meaning
A Ball at Rest is a ball in play that has come to rest on the course. Under Rule 9, it is normally played as it lies. If it moves, the cause determines whether it is replaced, played from its new spot or penalised.
How it matters in match play
In match play, a Ball at Rest is governed mainly by Rule 9. If Alex's ball is moved by Ben or Ben's caddie, it normally must be replaced and Ben normally gets one penalty stroke when the movement was deliberate or caused by Ben's actions. There is an exception when Ben is conceding a stroke, hole or match. If wind moves the ball, Alex plays it from the new spot without penalty.
Table
| Quick reference | Detail |
|---|---|
| Term | Ball at Rest |
| Category | rules |
| Applicable rule | Rules of Golf, Rule 9, especially Rules 9.1-9.5 |
| Related concepts | Ball in Motion, Moved Ball, Natural Forces, Accidental Movement, Replacing the Ball |
Worked example
Alex's Ball at Rest moves when a gust catches it before his stroke; he plays from its new spot with no penalty. If Ben deliberately moves it instead, Alex replaces it and Ben gets one penalty stroke under Rule 9.5.
Rule reference: Rules of Golf, Rule 9, especially Rules 9.1-9.5
Sources: www.randa.org , www.usga.org
Common questions
What is a Ball at Rest in golf?
It is a ball in play that has come to rest on the course. The normal principle is to play it as it lies, unless a Rule requires or allows lifting, replacing or relief.
What happens if a Ball at Rest moves in the wind?
If natural forces such as wind or water move it, there is no penalty and the player normally plays the ball from its new spot under Rule 9.3.
What if my opponent moves my Ball at Rest in match play?
When it is known or virtually certain that the opponent moved it, the ball normally must be replaced on its original spot. The opponent normally gets one penalty stroke for deliberately touching or causing the movement, subject to Rule 9.5 exceptions, including a concession.
Must a ball be replaced if it might have moved?
Not necessarily. The ball is treated as having moved only when it is known or virtually certain that it did. Otherwise, it is treated as not having moved and is played as it lies.
Does Ball at Rest have a special match-play scoring value?
No. It describes the ball's status, not a score or result. Its match-play importance is the procedure and penalty when the ball is lifted or moved.
Is Ball at Rest the same as a ball that has been holed?
No. A ball can be at rest anywhere on the course. A holed ball is specifically at rest in the hole with the entire ball below the putting-green surface.