Page type: Glossary / definition
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Meaning
A Wrong Green is any green on the course other than the putting green for the hole being played. If it interferes with the ball or the intended stance or swing, the player must take free, complete relief rather than play the ball as it lies.
How it matters in match play
Wrong Green is handled under the same Rule in match play as in other formats: the player must not play from the wrong green when there is interference and must take complete free relief. The relief area is based on the nearest point of complete relief, is one club-length, stays in the same area of the course and is not nearer the hole. A breach can bring the general penalty, which in match play is loss of hole.
Table
| Quick reference | Detail |
|---|---|
| Term | Wrong Green |
| Category | rules |
| Applicable rule | Rule 13.1f |
| Related concepts | Putting Green, Relief Area, Nearest Point of Complete Relief, General Penalty, Loss of Hole |
Worked example
Alex's approach on the 7th finishes on the 8th green, so he must not putt it; he finds the nearest point of complete relief, then drops within one club-length no nearer the 7th hole, with no penalty.
Rule reference: Rule 13.1f
Sources: www.randa.org , www.randa.org , www.randa.org , www.usga.org
Common questions
Can I putt from a Wrong Green?
No. When the wrong green interferes with the ball or the intended stance or swing, you must take complete free relief instead of playing the ball as it lies.
Is relief from a Wrong Green free?
Yes. Rule 13.1f requires free relief. Use the nearest point of complete relief and drop within one club-length, in the same area of the course and no nearer the hole.
What happens in match play if I play from a Wrong Green?
Playing from a wrong place in breach of Rule 13.1f attracts the general penalty. In match play, the general penalty is loss of hole, subject to the applicable Rules and any ruling by the Committee or referee.
Does the whole ball have to be on the Wrong Green?
No. There is interference if any part of the ball touches the wrong green, or if the wrong green physically interferes with the intended stance or area of intended swing.
Can a Wrong Green affect my stance even when my ball is off it?
Yes. Physical interference with the area of intended stance or intended swing is enough, provided the chosen stroke or stance is not clearly unreasonable in the circumstances.
Is a temporary putting green a Wrong Green?
A Committee can treat a putting green replaced by a temporary putting green as a wrong green under the applicable local rule. Check the Terms of the Competition or local notice for the course's marking and procedure.