The rules of golf are tricky! Thankfully, we have the guru. Our rules experts know this book inside and out. Have a question? He’s got all the answers.
At a PGA Tour event, I saw a pro’s ball lie too close to the tarp-covered fence to advance the ball forward, so he pitched it backwards. I think he has a legitimate, if risky, shot forward over the fence. Could he throw another ball over the fence to learn how the ricochet works? —Mike Rogers, via email
Mike, you framed an inquiry that we believe has not been considered by the authorities. Still, because the aforementioned powers-that-be did entertain the idea of trying throwing a ball to see how it would roll, we conclude that it’s a good thing the pro isn’t doing what you think.
Re: Test failed, clarification 14.4/2 considers this behavior to be against the spirit of the game, and therefore the disqualification of the player is justified under Rule 1.2a for gross misconduct. If a pro had performed this “throw” test, he would likely have been subject to the same scrutiny and potentially been ejected from the game.
For more testing-related guidance from our experts, read on…
At a recent tournament, the driving range was adjacent to the first tee. During warm-ups, a player who had never seen the course before hit the ball from the driving range onto the first fairway to see if he could clear the pond hazard off the tee. Clearing the pond leaves a flipping wedge; hitting a short distance or leaning to one side will take longer. Since he is gaining course knowledge, will he be penalized for playing the course on game day? —Andy Brown, via email
It felt like he deserved to be punished – it should be treated differently than someone who accidentally sliced a ball from the practice field into the field.
Perhaps unsatisfactorily, however, this is not the case.
Rule 5.2 does prohibit practicing on the court before the day’s game. However, regardless of where his practice shots ended up, the player hit the ball in a designated practice area rather than on the course, in violation of Rule 5.2.
While he may have gained insight, it was not a breakthrough. That said, if there are golfers on the course when he does this, then it’s dangerous and warrants a pointed comment on the player – or going to the responsible committee and asking them to talk to him.
Want to find the right gear for your bag in 2025? Find a club fitting location near you at True Spec Golf.
Have questions about the rules? Ask someone about the rules! Send your questions, confusion and comments to rulesguy@golf.com. We promise he won’t throw the book at you.
