Page type: Glossary / definition
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Meaning
Marking the Ball means identifying the spot of a ball before lifting it when the Rules require that ball to be replaced on its original spot. Use a ball-marker or hold a club immediately behind or next to the ball. Marking is not required when lifting to take relief.
How it matters in match play
In Match Play, mark the spot before lifting whenever replacement on the original spot is required, including on the Putting Green or when a ball interferes with play. Failing to mark, marking incorrectly, or making a stroke with the marker still in place brings a one-stroke penalty under Rule 14.1a; the match-play result then reflects that penalty in the hole's score.
Table
| Quick reference | Detail |
|---|---|
| Term | Marking the Ball |
| Category | rules |
| Applicable rule | Rules of Golf Rule 14.1a; Rule 3.2a; Rule 1.3c(2) |
| Related concepts | Lifting the Ball, Cleaning the Ball, Replacing the Ball, Putting Green, Wrong Place |
Worked example
Alex marks his ball beside the hole before lifting it, replaces it, removes the marker and holes out in 4; Ben takes 5, so Alex wins the hole 4-5, assuming no other penalties.
Rule reference: Rules of Golf Rule 14.1a; Rule 3.2a; Rule 1.3c(2)
Sources: www.randa.org , www.randa.org , www.randa.org , www.usga.org
Common questions
Do I have to mark my ball every time I lift it?
No. You must mark the spot before lifting when the ball must be replaced on its original spot. Rule 14.1a does not require marking when you lift the ball to take relief under a Rule.
Where can I place a ball-marker?
Place it right behind or right next to the ball, or hold a club on the ground right behind or right next to it. The R&A clarification says a marker may also be immediately in front of or to the side, provided it is right next to the ball.
What happens in Match Play if I lift without marking?
You receive a one-stroke penalty under Rule 14.1a. In Match Play, apply that penalty to the hole's score; the player with the lower resulting score wins the hole under Rule 3.2a. If the mistake is noticed before the stroke, correct it where the Rules allow.
Can I clean a ball after marking it?
A ball lifted from the Putting Green may always be cleaned. Elsewhere, cleaning is generally allowed but has exceptions, including lifting to identify the ball, check whether it is cut or cracked, because it interferes with play, or to check a relief condition; see Rule 14.1c.
Is marking the ball itself a penalty?
No. Marking correctly is the procedure that lets you lift and replace the ball accurately. The penalty applies for failing to mark when required, marking in a wrong way, or making a stroke while a ball-marker remains in place.
Does marking change the ball's position?
No. The marker identifies the spot; after lifting, the ball must be replaced on its original spot, or an estimated original spot if it is not known. Do not move the ball nearer the hole or alter its lie while replacing it.