Golf offers a variety of formats that make the game more engaging for both players and spectators. One of the most popular is the four-ball format, widely used in major team competitions like the Ryder Cup and Solheim Cup.
Often referred to as “better ball,” this format is simple, flexible, and suitable for golfers of all skill levels. In four-ball, each player plays their own ball throughout the round, but only the best score from each team counts on every hole–adding both strategy and teamwork to the game.
But what exactly is four-ball in golf, and how does it work? Whether you’re new to the game or looking to refine your understanding, this guide will walk you through the rules, format, and key tips you need to know.
What is Four-Ball in Golf?
Four-ball in golf is a team format where four players compete in pairs, with each golfer playing their own ball throughout the round. It is one of the three formats used in the Ryder Cup—alongside foursomes and singles.
The four players are divided into two teams of two. While each player completes the hole with their own ball, only the lowest score from each team counts toward the team’s total for that hole.
For example, if one player scores 3 and their partner scores 4, the team’s score is recorded as 3. This scoring method is why the format is often referred to as “better ball.”
Another common format is foursomes, also known as alternate shot. In this format, the same four players are split into two teams, but each team uses only one ball and players take turns hitting shots.
Stroke Play or Match Play?
The four-ball format can be played as either stroke play or match play, depending on the competition rules.
In match play, each team compares its best score on a hole with the opposing team’s best score. The team with the lower score wins that hole. If both teams record the same score, the hole is halved.
In stroke play, teams do not compete hole by hole. Instead, each player plays their own ball, and the lowest score from each team is recorded for every hole. These hole-by-hole scores are then added together to determine the team’s total score for the round.
Four Ball Golf Rules for Amateurs
Four-ball in golf follows standard golf rules, but includes specific scoring methods that make it suitable for team play. In amateur competitions, handicap allowances are often applied to ensure fair play between players of different skill levels.
The exact handicap adjustment can vary depending on the rules of the competition or organizing body. In many cases, a percentage of each player’s handicap is used to calculate net scores.
Stroke Play
- In four-ball stroke play, each player’s handicap is applied to determine their net score on each hole. The team then uses the lowest net score between partners as the team score for that hole.
- Handicap allowances (such as percentage adjustments) may be used depending on the specific competition rules, so it’s important to follow the guidelines provided by the organizing body.
Handicap Example (Stroke Play)
If a player has a handicap of 12, a percentage allowance may be applied depending on the competition rules. For example:
12 × 0.85 = 10.2, which is rounded to 10.
In this case, the player would receive 10 handicap strokes to adjust their net score. These strokes help level the playing field between players of different skill levels.
Handicap in Match Play
- In match play formats, handicaps are applied by comparing players within a team
- First, identify the player with the lowest handicap. That player receives 0 strokes
- For the remaining players, subtract the lowest handicap from their own, then apply a percentage allowance (commonly used in some competitions), and round the result
Example:
Handicaps: 5, 9, 11, 13
Lowest handicap = 5 → receives 0 strokes
For the others:
Player with 9: (9 − 5) = 4 → 90% = 3.6 → rounds to 4
Player with 11: (11 − 5) = 6 → 90% = 5.4 → rounds to 5
Player with 13: (13 − 5) = 8 → 90% = 7.2 → rounds to 7
Simple Way to Understand It
- Stroke play: handicap is adjusted using a percentage to calculate net scores
- Match play: handicaps are compared, and strokes are allocated relative to the lowest handicap player
Think of a handicap as a way to balance skill differences so players of different abilities can compete fairly.
Is Four Ball Golf Suitable for Beginners?
Yes, four-ball golf is well suited for beginners and amateur players. It is played in teams of two, allowing players to enjoy the game alongside a partner rather than competing individually.
Because each player plays their own ball and only the best score on each hole counts for the team, the format reduces pressure and allows players to focus on their own game. Handicap allowances are often used in amateur competitions, helping to balance differences in skill levels and keep the game competitive and fair.
This makes four-ball an accessible format for new golfers, including younger players, while still being enjoyable for more experienced ones.
The Strategy of Four Ball
Four-ball strategy is often simpler than individual formats, but it still involves thoughtful planning and teamwork.
One of the most important aspects is selecting a compatible partner. Teams often perform best when players have complementary strengths and weaknesses, rather than identical playing styles. For example, one player may excel at long drives while the other is more consistent with approach shots or putting.
Since each player plays their own ball, there is less pressure on any single shot. This allows players to take more calculated risks, knowing that their partner may still record a better score on the hole.
Much of the strategy in four-ball happens before the round begins. Teams may consider the order of play on tee shots and how each player’s strengths can influence overall performance. While not strictly required, deciding who tees off first can be a tactical choice that affects how aggressively each player approaches their shot.
Overall, four-ball rewards teamwork, balance, and smart decision-making as much as individual skill.
Four Ball vs Best Ball: Are They the Same?
In golf, “four-ball” and “best ball” are often used interchangeably, but they are not exactly the same in terminology.
Four-ball is the official term used in the Rules of Golf and in formal competitions. Best ball is a more commonly used, informal term that describes the same scoring concept.
In both cases, the format is played in teams of two, where each player plays their own ball throughout the round. On each hole, the lower score between the two teammates is recorded as the team’s score.
Because only the best score counts, the format reduces pressure on individual players and allows each golfer to play their own game while still contributing to the team.
Handicap allowances are often applied in amateur competitions to ensure fairness between players of different skill levels, making the format accessible to beginners while still competitive for experienced golfers.
FAQs
Why is it called four-ball golf?
It is called four-ball because four golf balls are in play on each hole—one from each of the four players. In a team of two players, each golfer plays their own ball throughout the round.
What is a four-ball in golf scoring?
In four-ball scoring, each player plays their own ball on every hole. However, only the lowest score from each team is counted as the team’s score for that hole.
What is four-ball in golf Ryder Cup?
In the Ryder Cup, four-ball is played as a match play format. Each team’s best score on a hole is compared against the opposing team’s best score, and the lower score wins the hole. The team that wins the most holes wins the match.
Can players give advice in four-ball?
Yes. In four-ball, teammates are allowed to give each other advice during the round. This can help with strategy, club selection, and how to approach each shot.
Players can discuss options and support each other since they are part of the same team. However, this advice is limited to teammates and their caddies, and should follow the standard Rules of Golf regarding advice and conduct.
