Page type: Glossary / definition
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Meaning
A ball is in motion from the moment it is struck, or otherwise set in motion, until it comes to rest. Rule 11 applies to a ball in play, except for a ball dropped in a relief area before it comes to rest, which is covered by Rule 14.3.
How it matters in match play
In match play, an accidental deflection or stop of a ball in motion normally carries no penalty; the player usually accepts where it finishes and plays from there. The exception is deliberate interference: deliberately deflecting or stopping a ball in motion attracts the general penalty, which is loss of hole in match play. A Rules issue must still be resolved rather than waived by agreement.
Table
| Quick reference | Detail |
|---|---|
| Term | Ball in Motion |
| Category | rules |
| Applicable rule | Rule 11; Rule 1.3c(2) |
| Related concepts | Ball at Rest, Outside Influence, Moved Ball, Stroke, Loss of Hole |
Worked example
On a par-three, Alex's tee shot accidentally strikes Ben's golf bag and finishes 6 metres short of the green; there is no penalty, so Alex plays the ball from that spot. If Alex had deliberately placed the bag to stop the ball, Alex would lose the hole in match play.
Rule reference: Rule 11; Rule 1.3c(2)
Sources: www.randa.org , www.usga.org , www.usga.org
Common questions
When does a golf ball become a ball in motion?
It becomes a ball in motion when it is struck or otherwise set in motion, and remains so until it comes to rest. A ball dropped in a relief area is treated separately until it comes to rest under Rule 14.3.
What happens if a ball in motion accidentally hits a person or object?
There is normally no penalty to any player. The ball is usually played as it lies from wherever it comes to rest. Special relief applies if it comes to rest on a person, animal or moving outside influence, so Rule 11.1b should be checked.
What if a player deliberately stops or deflects a ball in motion?
The player gets the general penalty. In match play, the general penalty is loss of hole; in stroke play it is two penalty strokes. The ball is not simply played from the place where the deliberate interference stopped it; Rule 11.2c sets the relief procedure.
Does a ball in motion always mean the ball was hit by a club?
No. Rule 11 covers a ball in play that is in motion whether after a stroke or otherwise. The Rules separately address a ball dropped in a relief area before it comes to rest under Rule 14.3.
Can players agree to ignore a ball-in-motion penalty in match play?
No. Players may seek agreement on how to decide a Rules issue, but they must not agree to ignore a Rule or a known penalty. Such an agreement can lead to disqualification under Rule 1.3b(1).
Is Ball in Motion a match-play format?
No. It is a Rules term describing the status of a moving ball. It can arise in match play, stroke play and other forms of play; Rule 11 supplies the procedure and penalties.