In a best-ball format, every team member plays their own ball from tee to hole. The lowest eligible score on each hole becomes the team score. In a scramble, by contrast, the team selects one position after every stroke.
The term is often used informally for four-ball, but event conditions can differ. Check whether the score is gross or net and how many scores count.
A simple example
- 01
Player A scores 5 and Player B scores 4: the side records 4.
- 02
On the next hole A scores 3 and B scores 6: the side records 3.
- 03
Both players complete their own ball unless one can no longer help the side and picks up.
Best ball is not a scramble
In best ball, players may be in completely different positions because each ball remains separate. In a scramble, everyone moves to the team’s chosen ball after each stroke.
Read What is a golf scramble? for the step-by-step format.
How handicaps are applied
Handicap allowances depend on the format and competition conditions. The side may count the lowest net score rather than the lowest gross score, so confirm each player’s Playing Handicap before starting.
The essential point
Best ball keeps every player’s ball in play and uses the team’s best eligible hole score. Do not confuse it with a scramble’s shared position.
Sources
The following official or specialist sources were used to verify this independently written guide.
- The R&A – official guidance Source used to verify the rules or factual information in this guide.
- The R&A – official guidance Source used to verify the rules or factual information in this guide.
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