We all know the basics—no grounding your club in a bunker, play it as it lies, and so on. But golf is full of quirky, lesser-known rules that could save you strokes (or penalize you if you’re not careful). Here are a few random rules you’ve probably never heard of—but should:
1. Ball Wedged in a Tree? You’re Not Out of Luck—Sort Of.
If your ball gets stuck in a tree and you can see it but can’t retrieve it, it’s still considered in play… but good luck! You can declare it unplayable and take a one-stroke penalty, dropping as close as possible to where it’s stuck. Climbing up and knocking it loose? Legal, but not recommended unless you’re part monkey.
2. Double Hit = One Stroke (Since 2019!)
Accidentally hit the ball twice in one swing? It used to cost you extra, but now, thanks to a rule update, it only counts as one stroke. So if your wedge flubs and clips it twice—breathe easy.
3. Natural Forces Are Fair Game
If your ball is at rest on the green and the wind blows it into the hole—guess what? No penalty. It counts as holed! But if you already marked and replaced it, and then it moves? You have to put it back.
4. Ball Hits You or Your Equipment?
If you accidentally hit yourself or your bag with your own shot, you used to get penalized. Now, under the modern rules, it’s no penalty—just a bruise to your pride.
Golf is a game of honor, tradition, and… surprisingly weird rules. Learn a few each week and you’ll be the go-to rules guru in your foursome.
Stay sharp out there—and as always, swing happy.
– Team Happy Golf 🏌️♂️⛳
