Page type: Glossary / definition
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Meaning
A conceded stroke is an opponent's next stroke that the player chooses to count as holed in match play. The opponent may lift the ball rather than play it. This is different from a handicap stroke or a penalty stroke: it is a match-play concession made by the opponent.
How it matters in match play
A player may concede the opponent's next stroke any time before that stroke is made. The opponent then completes the hole with a score that includes the conceded stroke, and the ball may be removed. The concession can be verbal or a clear action, is final, and cannot be declined or withdrawn. A player may still putt out after the concession unless doing so would help a partner.
Table
| Quick reference | Detail |
|---|---|
| Term | Conceded Stroke |
| Category | scoring |
| Applicable rule | Rule 3.2b(1) |
| Related concepts | Concession, Conceded Hole, Match Play, Hole Score, Won Hole |
Worked example
On the 7th hole, Alex has played 3 strokes and leaves a short putt; Ben concedes the next stroke, so Alex's Hole Score is 4 and Alex may pick up rather than putt.
Rule reference: Rule 3.2b(1)
Sources: www.randa.org , www.usga.org , www.usga.org
Common questions
Can a player refuse a conceded stroke?
No. Under Rule 3.2b(1), a concession is final and cannot be declined or withdrawn. The player may putt out if doing so does not help a partner.
Does a conceded stroke count in the hole score?
Yes. The opponent completes the hole with a score that includes the conceded stroke, even though the ball may be lifted instead of holed with the club.
Can you concede a stroke in stroke play?
No. The Rules of Golf concession described in Rule 3.2b applies to match play. In stroke play, players must hole out unless another applicable Rule provides otherwise.
When must a conceded stroke be given?
It must be given before the opponent makes the next stroke. A concession can be spoken or shown by an action that clearly communicates the player's intent.
Is a conceded stroke the same as a gimme?
Not necessarily. A conceded stroke is a Rules-based match-play concession. A gimme is often a casual or competition house practice, so its availability and conditions depend on the format's terms.
Can a player concede a stroke while the ball is still moving?
Yes, the concession normally applies to the next stroke if the previous ball is still moving, unless that ball is holed. Special limits apply if a player deflects or stops the moving ball to make the concession.