Page type: Glossary / definition
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Meaning
Replacing the ball means setting a lifted or moved ball down on its original spot, rather than dropping it. The original spot is estimated if necessary. The Rules normally require the original ball, with limited exceptions such as when it cannot be recovered promptly or is damaged.
How it matters in match play
In Match Play, replacing the ball follows the same procedure as in other forms of play. If a player or opponent lifts or moves a ball at rest, it normally must be replaced on its original spot; the opponent generally receives one penalty stroke for causing it deliberately, while a wrong-place breach attracts the general penalty, Loss of Hole.
Table
| Quick reference | Detail |
|---|---|
| Term | Replacing the Ball |
| Category | rules |
| Applicable rule | Rules of Golf 9.4-9.6 and 14.1-14.2; Rule 14.7a |
| Related concepts | Ball at Rest, Lifting the Ball, Marking the Ball, Wrong Place, Putting Green |
Worked example
Alex marks and lifts his ball on the Putting Green, then replaces that same ball on the marked spot before putting; no penalty applies. If Ben accidentally moves Alex's ball in Match Play, Alex replaces it on the estimated original spot and Ben normally has no penalty for an accidental move.
Rule reference: Rules of Golf 9.4-9.6 and 14.1-14.2; Rule 14.7a
Sources: www.randa.org , www.randa.org , www.usga.org
Common questions
Does replacing the ball mean dropping it?
No. Replacing means setting the ball down by hand on its original spot. Dropping is the different procedure used for many relief situations under Rule 14.3.
Must I use the same ball when replacing it?
Usually, yes. Rule 14.2a requires the original ball, but allows another ball in limited cases, including when the original cannot be recovered with reasonable effort in a few seconds, is cut or cracked, play resumes after a suspension, or another player played it as a wrong ball.
What happens if the replaced ball will not stay on its spot?
Try replacing it a second time. If it still will not remain at rest, place it on the nearest spot where it will stay, subject to Rule 14.2e's limits, including not nearer the hole and remaining in the required course area.
Is replacing a moved ball different in Match Play?
The replacement procedure is not different. Match Play changes some penalties: for example, the general penalty for playing from a wrong place is Loss of Hole, and an opponent who deliberately causes the player's ball to move normally gets one penalty stroke.
What if I do not know the exact original spot?
Estimate the original spot using reasonable judgement and replace the ball there. The Rules accept a reasonable determination made promptly and carefully, even if later information shows it was not exact.
Can another player replace my ball?
Only the player or the person who lifted the ball or caused it to move may replace it under Rule 14.2b. This is separate from who may lift a ball under Rule 14.1b.