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Meaning
A drop is the method used to put a ball into play when a Rule requires relief. The player lets it fall straight down from knee height, without touching the player or equipment, and it must first hit the ground in the required relief area or on the permitted line.
How it matters in match play
In match play, a drop follows the same Rule 14.3 procedure as in other formats. It can be used for free relief or penalty relief, but the relief option and penalty come from the applicable Rule. If a correctly dropped ball does not stay in the relief area, drop again; after two such drops, place a ball as required.
Table
| Quick reference | Detail |
|---|---|
| Term | Drop |
| Category | rules |
| Applicable rule | Rule 14.3 |
| Related concepts | Relief Area, Penalty Relief, Free Relief, Lateral Relief, Back-on-the-Line Relief |
Worked example
Alex takes one-stroke penalty relief for an unplayable ball, drops from knee height in a two-club-length relief area, and the ball comes to rest there; Alex then plays it as it lies.
Rule reference: Rule 14.3
Sources: www.randa.org , www.usga.org , www.usga.org
Common questions
How high must a golf ball be dropped?
The ball must be let go from the height of the player's knee when standing. The player does not have to be standing while making the drop, but the ball must fall straight down without being thrown, spun or rolled.
Can my caddie drop my ball?
Normally, no. Rule 14.3b requires the player to drop the ball. A partner may drop for a player only where a specific disability modification applies; a caddie or another person cannot ordinarily do it.
What happens if my dropped ball rolls out of the relief area?
If the ball was dropped in the right way but comes to rest outside the relief area, drop again in the right way. If the second correct drop also finishes outside, place a ball on the spot where the second drop first touched the ground.
Does a drop count as a stroke?
No. A drop is a procedure for putting a ball into play, not a stroke. Any penalty stroke comes from the Rule that gives the relief, such as unplayable-ball or penalty-area relief.
Can I drop a ball anywhere I choose?
No. The applicable relief Rule determines the reference point, the size and limits of the relief area, and sometimes a line. The first contact with the ground must be in the required area or on the permitted line.
Can I test-drop a ball before taking relief?
No. The Rules do not permit a test drop to see how a ball will react. A player should determine the applicable relief procedure and then take relief using the required drop or place procedure.