The rules of golf are hard! Fortunately, we have the guru. Ours Rules Guy know the book front to back. Do you have a question? He has all the answers.
The wind blew my ball during my downstroke on a downhill, downwind putt. Since I was worried about the wind, I didn’t ground my putter, if that matters. The putt itself ended up being terrifying… but did it also result in a penalty, especially given how close the ball was to the hole? -Bryan Rehm, via email
If it’s any consolation, Bryan, your terrible putt is asking an excellent question. We need to relax this little by little.
The ball started moving after you started your backswing, so at this point, under Rule 10.1d, there is no penalty for you playing a ball in motion (while you are normally not allowed to hit a ball while it is moving).
Since, by your description, you have completed the stroke, play the ball from where it came to rest, whether it was the wind or you that caused the ball to start moving, per Rule 9.1b. The last bit is if you are on the hook for a penalty shot to get the ball moving. From your description, the answer is no, because if nothing else – partly because you did not do an action like the ground of your club near the ball – it is not known or almost certain that you caused it to move.
So, we treat it as having been moved by natural forces, and so this is the rare case where you play a moving ball with zero penalty. Anyway, I hope you made the next one.
For more movement guidance from our guru, read on…
My approach shot shot into a greenside bunker, high up its steep face and just below the lip. When the group examined my situation, the sand gave way, dislodging the ball, which then rolled to the base of the bunker. We agreed that I would play from there, as replacement would have been next to impossible – but I am waiting to enter my score until I hear from you. -Johnny M. Provost, Myrtle Beach, SC
When you say “checked”, does it mean that someone caused the ball to move – either you or another player in your direction? Because, yes, there is the roar.
If it is not known or almost certain who or what caused the movement of the ball, then it will be treated as being moved by natural forces and play the ball as it was correct.
If instead someone caused the ball to move, it should be replaced under Rule 9.4 (you did) or 9.6 (he did).
If the ball does not stop, then try again. After that, for Rule 14.2e find the nearest place where you will rest in the bunker and no closer to the hole.
So, if that’s the case, you’ve played from the wrong spot and have two penalty strokes in stroke play. In any case, no lips!
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