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Rules of Golf Handbook
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Rules FAQ
Rule 25-2
Embedded Ball Rule
Q. On what part of the course is a player entitled to relief from an embedded ball?
A. Under Rule 25-2, a player may only take relief from a ball that is embedded in a closely-mown area through the green. A closely-mown area is any area that is mowed to fairway height or less. However, the Committee may adopt a Local Rule that allows for relief from an embedded ball anywhere through the green. This Local Rule can be found in Appendix I; Part B.
Below you can view videos related to this Rule. | |
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| Nearest Point of Relief | |
How to determine your nearest point of relief |
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| Abnormal ground condition | |
During the 1996 U.S. Amateur Championship, while battling for the title with Tiger Woods, Steve Scott hit a tee shot that came to rest on this French drain in the fairway. The rutted drain had been declared an “abnormal ground condition,” and under Rule 25-1, Scott therefore was entitled to relief without penalty. |
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| On the fringe of a wrong putting green | |
During the 2002 Ryder Cup, Tiger Woods’ ball came to rest on the fringe of a wrong putting green. Rule 25-3 says interference from a wrong putting green occurs only when the ball rests actually on that green. |
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