Playing by the Rules: How to Handle a Ball That Moves During Your Backswing

First, the good news: When the ball moves after the backswing has begun and the stroke is completed, there is no penalty for playing a moving ball and we can play the ball from wherever the stroke comes to rest. Thank Rule 9.1b for that.

The potential bad news/caveat: If it were our actions that caused the ball to move, we’re still potentially on the hook for one penalty stroke under Rule 9.4b.

For more moving-ball guidance from our guru, read on …

My pulled approach shot plugged in a greenside bunker, high up its steep face and just under the lip. As the group examined our predicament, sand gave way, dislodging the ball, which then rolled to the base of the bunker. We agreed that we play it from there, as replacing it would have been next to impossible — but we’re waiting to enter our score until hearing from you.

Rules Guy: Can our partner refuse to move a ball that’s in our way?

When we say “examined,” does that mean someone caused the ball to move — either us or another player at our direction? Because, ay, there’s the rub.

If it is not known or virtually certain who or what caused the ball to move, then it would be treated as being moved by natural forces and playing the ball as it lay was correct.

If instead, someone caused the ball to move, it should have been replaced under either Rule 9.4 (we did it) or 9.6 (they did it).

If the ball doesn’t stay put, then we try once more. After that, per Rule 14.2e we find the nearest spot where it will stay at rest in the bunker and no nearer the hole.

So, if that’s the case, we played from a wrong place and get two penalty strokes in stroke play. Either way, let’s not give any lip!

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Got a question about the Rules? Ask the Rules Guy! Send your queries, confusions and comments to rulesguy@golf.com. We promise he won’t throw the book at you.

Frequently Asked Questions:

What happens if the ball moves during the backswing?

If the ball moves after the backswing has begun and the stroke is completed, there is no penalty. The ball is played from wherever the stroke comes to rest.

Can I replace a ball that moves during play?

If the ball is moved by natural forces, it is played as it lies. If someone caused the ball to move, it should be replaced under the appropriate Rule.

 What happens if the ball doesn’t stay at rest in a bunker?

If the ball doesn’t stay at rest, try once more. If it still doesn’t stay at rest, find the nearest spot in the bunker where it will stay at rest and play from there, adding two penalty strokes in stroke play.