Golf is more than just a sport, it is a shared experience among individuals on the course. Amidst the strategic swings and the precise putts, an often overlooked element shapes the spirit of the game - golf etiquette.
Much like the unspoken notes of a well-conducted symphony, etiquette on the course is a melody that harmonises the experience for each player. Let us dive into the unchartered terrain of unwritten rules and timeless traditions that contribute towards making the game what it is.
Time
Golf is a sport that generally takes up a large portion of your day. It also requires a lot of booking and planning ahead of time. Showing up late is the cardinal sin of golf etiquette.
⛳ Always be at least 15 minutes early, always.
Remain calm & collected
Unlike sports like football and cricket, golf is not one for cursing and shouting. If your shots are off target, don’t get too upset. Listening to a player curse after every shot can be as exhausting as messing up every shot.
Don’t hog real estate
Putting too many balls on the practice green when others are around is a big no-no. When it’s just you, go nuts!
Stay in line
A putter’s line extends two-three feet past the hole, and most would argue that stepping on someone’s line may not make a difference at all. However, it is simply a matter of golf etiquette and good manners. Do not step on the line between a player and the hole while on the green.
Bag placement
For all those walkers, before you put your bag down and walk to the green, take a couple of extra seconds to place your bag in the most logical position for you to pick it up and move on to the next hole. This can save a lot of time so the group behind you is not waiting longer than they need to be.
Mutual respect
Rooted in tradition, golf places a high value on respect for fellow players. Silence during swings, maintaining the proper pace of play, and allowing faster groups to play through are fundamental aspects of this courtesy.
Repairing divots
It is each golfer’s responsibility to maintain the beauty and integrity of the course, they can do so by repairing the divots. The failure to do so can impact the course and create challenges for players that follow.
Silence your devices
In the age of technology and modernity, we are used to being glued to our phones. However, golf is a game that demands focus and concentration. Silence or set your phone to vibrate before teeing off to avoid unnecessary distractions and to avoid giving off an impression of boredom to your fellow golfers.
While there are several other rules, both written and unwritten, about the game of golf, embracing these rules and traditions not only enriches your experience but also contributes to the collective spirit of the game.