Page type: Glossary / definition
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Meaning
A Playing Handicap is the number of strokes a player gives or receives in a particular round, game or competition. Under the World Handicap System, it is calculated by applying the appropriate Handicap Allowance to the player’s Course Handicap; with a 100% allowance, the two numbers are the same.
How it matters in match play
In individual match play, the recommended allowance is 100%, so each player’s Playing Handicap normally equals their Course Handicap. The player with the lowest Playing Handicap plays off zero, and every other player receives the difference from that lowest number. The Committee should state the allowance in the Terms of the Competition, and team formats use different recommended percentages.
Table
| Quick reference | Detail |
|---|---|
| Term | Playing Handicap |
| Category | handicap |
| Applicable rule | WHS Rules of Handicapping, Rule 6.2 (Playing Handicap Calculation); Appendix C (Handicap Allowances) |
| Related concepts | Course Handicap, Handicap Allowance, Handicap Index, Handicap Stroke, Handicap Stroke Allocation |
Worked example
Alex has a Course Handicap of 12.4 and the competition uses a 100% individual match-play allowance, so his rounded Playing Handicap is 12; Ben’s Course Handicap of 18.6 becomes 19, meaning Alex plays off zero and Ben receives 7 strokes. These names and figures are illustrative, not historical player data.
Rule reference: WHS Rules of Handicapping, Rule 6.2 (Playing Handicap Calculation); Appendix C (Handicap Allowances)
Sources: www.randa.org , www.randa.org , www.usga.org , www.usga.org
Common questions
Is a Playing Handicap the same as a Handicap Index?
No. A Handicap Index is converted to a Course Handicap for the course and tees being played. The appropriate handicap allowance is then applied to that Course Handicap to produce the Playing Handicap used in the game or competition.
What is the Playing Handicap allowance for individual match play?
The WHS Appendix C recommendation is 100% for individual match play. The Committee’s Terms of the Competition control the allowance for a specific event, so players should check those terms rather than assume a casual game uses the recommendation.
How are Playing Handicaps used in a singles match?
After each player’s Playing Handicap is established, the lowest Playing Handicap is set to zero. The other player receives the difference between their Playing Handicap and the lowest one, with strokes allocated according to the relevant Handicap Stroke Allocation.
Does four-ball match play use the same Playing Handicap allowance?
No. Appendix C recommends 90% for four-ball match play, compared with 100% for individual match play. The Committee may specify a different allowance where the applicable WHS authority permits an adjustment.
Who decides the allowance for a competition?
For an organised handicap competition, the Committee should specify the allowance in the Terms of the Competition. WHS Appendix C provides recommendations, but the relevant National Association, Regional Golf Association or club may establish or delegate the allowance under the system.
Are the numbers in the example official player results?
No. Alex, Ben and the figures are an editorial calculation used to explain the method. They are not a tournament result, a club record or evidence of a real match.