Page type: Glossary / definition
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Meaning
Lifting the ball is deliberately picking up, rotating or otherwise moving a ball at rest under a Rule. Before lifting a ball that must be replaced on its original spot, mark its spot first. A ball lifted for relief does not need that preliminary mark.
How it matters in match play
The procedure is the same in match play as in stroke play, but the consequence of a breach depends on the specific Rule. For example, failing to mark before lifting a ball that must be replaced, or cleaning it when cleaning is prohibited, attracts one penalty stroke. Lifting and replacing from a wrong place can attract the general penalty, which is loss of hole in match play.
Table
| Quick reference | Detail |
|---|---|
| Term | Lifting the Ball |
| Category | rules |
| Applicable rule | Rule 14.1; Rule 14.2; Rule 3.2a(1) |
| Related concepts | Marking the Ball, Cleaning the Ball, Replacing the Ball, Wrong Place, Loss of Hole |
Worked example
On the 7th hole, Alex marks his ball beside it, lifts and cleans it, then replaces it on the marked spot; if he is 2 up after winning that hole, the match score becomes 3 up.
Rule reference: Rule 14.1; Rule 14.2; Rule 3.2a(1)
Sources: www.randa.org , www.randa.org , www.usga.org
Common questions
Do I always have to mark the ball before lifting it?
No. Mark first when a Rule requires the ball to be replaced on its original spot. Marking is not required when lifting to take relief under a Rule.
May I clean a lifted ball?
A ball lifted from the putting green may always be cleaned. Elsewhere it may usually be cleaned, but not when lifted to check for a cut or crack, because it interferes with play, or to check a relief condition unless relief is then taken; identification permits only the cleaning needed to identify it.
Who may lift my ball?
You or someone you authorise may lift it, with authorisation given each time. On the putting green, the Rules also allow your caddie to lift it without that authorisation.