Page type: Glossary / definition
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Meaning
Banker is a casual betting game for three or more golfers. A rotating banker plays an individual hole contest against each other player for an agreed amount within the betting limit. It is a house game, not an official Rules of Golf format.
How it matters in match play
Banker borrows the one-on-one, hole-by-hole idea of match play, but it is not the same as a single official match: several separate bets run against the banker on each hole. Groups commonly use gross scores or agreed net scores. If net scores are used, the group must agree how handicap strokes are allocated; no universal Banker allowance or settlement rule is evidenced. The banker usually changes to the lowest scorer from the previous hole, with a stated tie-breaker.
Table
| Quick reference | Detail |
|---|---|
| Term | Banker |
| Category | betting |
| Applicable rule | Rules of Golf 3.2c (net match-play principles only; Banker itself is a casual side game) |
| Related concepts | Nassau, Skins, Wolf, Side Bet, Stake |
Worked example
Alex is the banker on a hole with Ben, Chris and Dana; they agree on a $1 minimum and a $5 maximum, and choose $5, $2 and $1 bets respectively. Alex scores 5, Ben 4, Chris 6 and Dana 6, so Alex loses $5 to Ben but wins $2 from Chris and $1 from Dana, for a net loss of $2; Ben becomes banker next hole under that house rule.
Rule reference: Rules of Golf 3.2c (net match-play principles only; Banker itself is a casual side game)
Sources: www.golfdigest.com , www.thefriedegg.com , www.randa.org
Common questions
How many players do you need for Banker?
Use at least three players. Each non-banker plays a separate hole bet against the banker, so a foursome creates three individual match-ups rather than one team bet.
How is the Banker chosen?
Choose the first banker by an agreed method, such as a random draw. A common arrangement makes the lowest scorer on the previous hole the next banker. State the tie-breaker before starting because published versions differ, including first to hole out or a putting-based tie-breaker.
Can Banker use handicaps?
Yes, a group can agree to play gross or net scores. For a net version, agree the handicap-stroke method before the round; the Rules of Golf describe handicap strokes and lower net score in an official match, but do not prescribe a Banker allowance.
Who sets the bet in Banker?
The group should set a minimum before play. In a common variation, the banker announces the maximum for each hole, and each opponent chooses an amount between the minimum and that maximum. Record any different house rule clearly.
Are presses part of the standard Banker rules?
Presses are optional house rules, not a universal Banker requirement. Some published versions allow an opponent to press before the banker plays and allow the banker to press back against everyone; agree timing, limits and settlement before teeing off.
Is Banker governed by the Rules of Golf?
No. Banker is a casual betting arrangement. The Rules of Golf govern formal match-play principles such as winning holes and using net scores, while the banker rotation, bet limits, presses and payment terms must be agreed by the group.