Page type: Glossary / definition
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Meaning
A hole not played is one a player or side does not start. Under the World Handicap System, it can contribute an expected score only when the round meets the minimum-hole requirement and the reason for stopping or skipping is valid. A started hole is treated differently.
How it matters in match play
In match play, an unfinished hole is not given a score simply because play stopped. If one player leads by more holes than remain, the match is over under Rule 3.2a(3), so later holes are unplayed and do not affect the result. For handicap posting, WHS Rule 3.2b may use expected scores for validly unplayed holes when the minimum number of holes was completed.
Table
| Quick reference | Detail |
|---|---|
| Term | Hole Not Played |
| Category | handicap |
| Applicable rule | Rules of Golf Rule 3.2a(3); Rules of Handicapping Rule 3.2a-b |
| Related concepts | Incomplete Round, Expected Score, Score Differential, Match Result, Conceded Hole |
Worked example
Alex leads Ben by 3 holes after the 15th, so the match is won with 3 holes remaining; holes 16, 17 and 18 are not played. If Alex instead stops after 14 holes for severe weather and the round is otherwise eligible, the WHS may add expected scores for the four unplayed holes when creating an 18-hole Score Differential.
Rule reference: Rules of Golf Rule 3.2a(3); Rules of Handicapping Rule 3.2a-b
Sources: www.randa.org , www.usga.org , www.usga.org , www.randa.org
Common questions
Does a hole count as played if I start it but do not hole out?
Yes. Under WHS Rule 3.2b, a hole is considered played once it has been started. Do not treat it as a Hole Not Played; the score-recording provisions for a started but unfinished hole apply instead.
Can a hole not played be added to my handicap score?
Sometimes. The round must meet the minimum number of holes for an acceptable 9-hole or 18-hole score, and the reason for not playing must be valid. Expected score is the default WHS treatment; local authorised associations may allow net par only in limited approved circumstances.
What happens to holes not played when a match is already decided?
They remain unplayed and have no hole result. In match play, the match ends when a player leads by more holes than remain, so there is no need to record scores for the remaining holes. This is separate from deciding whether the round can be used for handicap purposes.
Is skipping a difficult hole a valid reason under the WHS?
No. The R&A lists deliberately avoiding a hole because it is difficult or likely to produce a high score as an invalid reason. A Handicap Committee may find the score unacceptable and may consider a penalty score under its procedures.
What should I submit for holes not played in a 10-to-17-hole round?
For an established Handicap Index, submit the played holes hole by hole through the authorised score-posting process. The WHS 2024 treatment combines the Score Differential from holes played with an expected Score Differential for the holes not played, subject to the applicable minimum and validity rules.
Can I use net par instead of expected score for an unplayed hole?
Expected score is the default. Net par can replace it only in limited circumstances and with approval from the relevant authorised association, such as certain holes temporarily out of play or an adjusted-gross-score requirement. Check the local handicap authority before using it.