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Golf Etiquette Rules: 9 Holes, 9 Tips to Remember

No need to even think about it golf is one of the most polite sports in the planet. Have you ever seen Tiger Woods knock one of his opponents on the fifth hole? Or could you imagine  Tom Watson chasing Goggin down the fairways of Turnberry at the Open with his club ready to swing at his head? I think not. It simply is not even a consideration. Never crosses a true golfer’s mind. Golf etiquette rules are present all the time.

Golf is a game of elegancy to put it lightly. The game is almost serene, but mostly very proud of its meticulous impeccability on players’ behaviors.

Golfers like to think of themselves as honorable. There lies the spirit of the game. The USGA and the PGA Tour alike embrace this idea and sponsor golf etiquette rules. Hence if you are a beginner golfer it is a great idea to learn golf etiquette rules. I would say it is just as important as knowing the rest of the rules, and coming to understand scoring.

So, let us review a few of the golf etiquette rules basics:

Tip 1. Check you out.

Starting even before you tee it up on the first hole. Always be ware of the dress code for the particular course you are playing. Dressing properly for the game is a must, if you are feeling like a rebel, most likely they will not let you play. Golf etiquette rules on clothing are pretty strict. Plus golf garments are pretty neat and fun. The three most important aspects you should ask the pro-shop are: shoes, shirts with sleeves (collar or not) and pants (full or knee high).

Tip 2. Golf Carts

Ready to get out on the course? If you are using a golf cart, and you are playing with more experienced players, let them drive and learn on the go. Otherwise make sure you park far enough from greens, and away from your fellow golfers and their golf balls. Find out if there is cart rule applying that day and what does it involve in detail. Walking like the pros do, is always a great option; just make sure to keep up a good pace.

Tip 3. Modern Era Golf Etiquette Rules

Is it a most to have your cell phone on? Or any other noisy gadget for that matter. If so, set it in vibration mode. Otherwise focus on your game and leave the world aside for a few hours.

Tip 4. Talking

This is a super basic; As stated in the golf etiquette rules: never talk while another player is hitting. In fact you should stop chatting a soon as the player in turn is preparing for his/her shot. Golf is greatly about concentration, you want to respect that for your foursome.

Tip 5. Line of Vision

When other golfers are set up and aligned to make the shot; Try not to stand in their line of vision or line of play. Also, give them some space being to close is not hot in this case.

Tip 6. The Honor

This is one of the most important golf etiquette rules. Be ready to play on your turn. When is it you turn? The ball furthest to the hole has the right of play. The only exception would be when one of the players is by the hole, then he/she can just tap it in to finish.

Tip 7. Tee Shot

For the first shot of the hole, the first player to shoot would be the one with the lowest score on the last one. Golf etiquette rules say in case of a tie, then whoever shot first on the previous tee shot.

Tip 8. Pace of Play

Like mentioned above, be ready for the shot. Line up your next shot before it is your turn.  A simple way to do it is to plan your shot while someone else is hitting. Golf etiquette rules also ask you to keep an eye on your foursome’s pace. How is the rhythm of your group? Are the golfers behind you already on your neck? If you see you are playing slower than the group behind, you might want to ask them to play through. That way you avoid holding them up excessively and you take away the pressure of having them right there every single shot. As well, if you are playing behind a slower group, remain calm and polite without trying to rush them. Most likely, they will let you pass, otherwise take your time and enjoy your game.

Tip 9. Take Care of The Course

Be an impeccable golfer you’ll see how much joy you can get from it. Golf etiquette rules include repairing divots on the fairways, ball marks on the greens, and racking the sand traps. Keep the course clean. This is the terrain where one of the greatest games is played.

Enjoy your round!

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About the Author

Vinny Riviello is an avid golfer and involved in the golf industry for over 15 years. Tournament media, tournament management, writing for international golf magazine, and more.

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