Page type: Glossary / definition
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Meaning
Order of Play is the sequence in which golfers play their strokes. On the tee, honour determines who starts; after the tee shots, the ball farthest from the hole is normally played first. The Rules make this sequence especially important in match play.
How it matters in match play
In match play, the first-hole honour comes from the Committee's draw, or agreement or a random method if there is no draw. The hole winner has honour on the next tee; a halved hole preserves the previous honour. After both players start, the ball farthest from the hole is played first. If someone plays out of turn, the opponent may promptly cancel the stroke. Players may agree to play out of turn to save time, giving up that cancellation right.
Table
| Quick reference | Detail |
|---|---|
| Term | Order of Play |
| Category | rules |
| Applicable rule | Rule 6.4a |
| Related concepts | Match Play, Playing Out of Turn, Won Hole, Halved Hole, Lead |
Worked example
Alex wins the 7th hole, so Alex has honour on the 8th tee; after both tee shots, Ben's ball is farther away and should be played first, but if Alex plays first Ben may promptly cancel that stroke before another stroke is made.
Rule reference: Rule 6.4a
Sources: www.randa.org , www.randa.org
Common questions
Who plays first on the first hole in match play?
The Committee's draw decides the honour. If there is no draw, the players decide by agreement or use a random method such as a coin toss.
Who has the honour on the next tee after a hole?
The player who won the hole has the honour. If the hole was halved, the player who had honour on the previous tee keeps it.
What happens if I play out of turn in match play?
There is no automatic penalty, but the opponent may promptly cancel the stroke before either player makes another stroke. The player must then replay from where the cancelled stroke was made.