Page type: Glossary / definition
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Meaning
A walkover is a competition result awarded when an opponent or side does not take part, so no holes are played. It is an administrative outcome set by the event’s Terms of the Competition, not a score such as 3 and 2 or a general Rules of Golf scoring procedure.
How it matters in match play
In match play, a walkover advances one player or side without a played match. The committee or competition organiser must apply the event’s own conditions, which may specify notice, eligibility, or how team points are recorded. Do not confuse it with a Conceded Match after play has started or with a normal hole-by-hole win.
Table
| Quick reference | Detail |
|---|---|
| Term | Walkover |
| Category | general |
| Applicable rule | No dedicated official rule established |
| Related concepts | Match Play, Conceded Match, Forfeit, Withdrawal |
Worked example
In a club knockout, Dana is awarded a walkover because Chris withdraws before the scheduled match; Dana advances, but there is no 5-and-4 score and no holes are recorded as played.
Sources: www.randa.org , www.usga.org , archive.golf.org.au
Common questions
Does a walkover have a golf score?
Usually no. A walkover is an administrative result, so the competition records the advancement or win under its Terms of the Competition rather than inventing hole scores. The organiser may prescribe a points or result entry for its own table.
Is a walkover the same as a Conceded Match?
Not necessarily. A walkover normally happens because the opponent is unavailable before the match is played. Under Rule 3.2b, a player may concede the match before the result is decided, including before the players start, but the competition may label and record that situation differently.
Can a club use its own walkover rules?
Yes, subject to the event’s Terms of the Competition. For example, Golf Australia’s Victorian Pennant handbook has competition-specific walkover procedures, including a provision that the opposing player or team need not be present after a walkover is given. Other competitions can set different notice and recording requirements.
Does the Rules of Golf define a universal walkover result?
No universal walkover score should be assumed. The Rules of Golf explain how a played match is won and how a match may be conceded; the event organiser determines administrative outcomes such as a walkover in its competition terms.
Can Alex claim a walkover just because Ben is late?
Not automatically. A late arrival, withdrawal, or absence is handled under the competition’s Terms of the Competition and any committee decision. Players should contact the committee rather than agree a result or create a score themselves.
Does a walkover count as a played round for handicap purposes?
Do not assume that it does. A walkover has no played holes or submitted score, and handicap treatment is governed by the applicable World Handicap System procedures and competition administration. Ask the Handicap Committee or authorised organiser for the event’s decision.