Page type: Glossary / definition
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Meaning
A Request for Ruling is a player’s timely appeal for a referee or Committee to decide how the Rules apply to a disputed or uncertain incident. In match play, it protects the player’s rights when the opponents cannot resolve the issue, subject to Rule 20.1b’s timing requirements.
How it matters in match play
In match play, either player may request a ruling when they disagree about whether a Rule was breached. If the facts become known before the final hole starts, the request must be made before either player makes a stroke to begin another hole. If the facts arise on the final hole, it must be made before the match result is final. Late requests normally receive no ruling.
Table
| Quick reference | Detail |
|---|---|
| Term | Request for Ruling |
| Category | rules |
| Applicable rule | Rule 20.1b(2)-(3); Rule 3.2a(5) |
| Related concepts | Ruling, Referee, Committee, Match Result, Score Verification |
Worked example
Illustrative only: Alex and Ben disagree after the 12th hole about a possible penalty. Alex asks for a ruling before either player strokes from the 13th tee, so the request is timely; if Alex waits until after the next tee shot, the result of the disputed hole normally stands.
Rule reference: Rule 20.1b(2)-(3); Rule 3.2a(5)
Sources: www.randa.org , www.randa.org , www.randa.org
Common questions
Who can make a Request for Ruling in match play?
Either player in the match can ask for a ruling when they disagree about whether a Rule was breached. The request is a way to protect that player’s rights; it is not limited to the player who may receive the penalty.
When is a Request for Ruling too late?
If the relevant facts became known before the final hole, the request is generally too late once either player makes a stroke to begin another hole. On the final hole, it must be made before the match result becomes final.
Can a Committee rule after the match has finished?
It can rule on a request made after the final hole but before the result is final, and the players may have to resume the match if the score changes. A request made after the result is final is normally not considered, subject to the narrow exception in Rule 20.1b(3).
Can players agree how to decide a Rules issue?
During a round, players may agree on an outcome if they are not knowingly ignoring a Rule or penalty. If they cannot agree, either player may make a timely Request for Ruling. A referee assigned to the match must decide an issue that comes to the referee in time.
Is playing two balls the match-play version of a ruling request?
No. The two-ball procedure in Rule 20.1c(3) is for stroke play. In match play, the player should protect their interests by asking for a timely ruling rather than treating two scores as alternatives.
Does a Request for Ruling automatically add a penalty?
No. The referee or Committee decides the facts and applies the Rules. The request only asks for that decision; the ruling may confirm the existing result, change a hole result, or alter the match status where the Rules require it.