Page type: Glossary / definition
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Meaning
In golf, a ball is lost when it is not found within three minutes after the player or caddie begins searching. Unless a specific exception applies, the player must return to the spot of the previous stroke, add one penalty stroke, and play again under stroke and distance.
How it matters in match play
In match play, a lost ball normally adds one penalty stroke and requires the player to replay from the previous stroke's spot, which can change the hole score and the match status. The opponent does not automatically win the hole: the result depends on both players' scores, unless the player cannot complete the hole or concedes it.
Table
| Quick reference | Detail |
|---|---|
| Term | Lost Ball |
| Category | rules |
| Applicable rule | Rules of Golf Rule 18.2a(1) and Rule 18.2b; provisional balls under Rule 18.3 |
| Related concepts | Ball Search, Stroke and Distance, Provisional Ball, Penalty Stroke, Match Play |
Worked example
Alex's tee shot is lost, so after the three-minute search he returns to the tee: the original stroke counts as 1, the penalty makes the next play stroke 3, and if Alex finishes in 6 while Ben finishes in 5, Ben wins the hole.
Rule reference: Rules of Golf Rule 18.2a(1) and Rule 18.2b; provisional balls under Rule 18.3
Sources: www.randa.org , www.usga.org
Common questions
How long do you have to search for a lost ball?
Under Rule 18.2a(1), the ball is lost if it is not found within three minutes after the player or caddie begins searching. A found ball may receive reasonable identification time when it was found within that search period.
What is the penalty for a lost ball?
Normally, the player takes stroke-and-distance relief: one penalty stroke is added and the player plays the original or another ball from the spot of the previous stroke. A specific Rule or an authorised Local Rule can provide a different option in limited circumstances.
Can you play a provisional ball if your ball might be lost?
Yes. If the ball might be lost outside a penalty area or might be out of bounds, announce a provisional ball before playing it. If the original is not found or is out of bounds, the provisional becomes the ball in play under stroke and distance; if the original is found in time, it normally must be played instead.
Does a lost ball automatically lose the hole in match play?
No. The lost-ball procedure adds a penalty stroke and requires replay from the previous stroke's spot. The hole is decided by comparing the completed scores, unless the player concedes or otherwise fails to complete the hole under the Rules.
Is a ball lost if it is found after three minutes?
Yes, if it was not found within the three-minute search time. Once the ball is lost, the player must proceed under the applicable relief procedure; a later discovery does not normally restore the original ball to play.
Does a Local Rule ever change the lost-ball procedure?
An authorised Local Rule may allow an alternative for a ball lost outside a penalty area or out of bounds, normally for two penalty strokes, but it must be in effect for the competition or course. Do not assume that option applies in every round.