Rule 9 – Golf’s Guiding Principle

Josh Kelley

Josh Kelley

SwingU Instructor

Rule 9 covers a central principle of the game: “play the ball as it lies.” If your ball comes to rest and is then moved by natural forces such as wind or water, you normally must play it from its new spot. If your ball at rest is lifted or moved by anyone or any outside influence before the stroke is made, your ball must be replaced on its original spot. You should take care when near any ball at rest, and if you cause your own ball or your opponent’s ball to move you will normally get a penalty (except on the putting green).


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