The Handicap System is a single system that is modern, equitable, and provides portable handicaps for all golfers. The World Handicap System makes it easy for golfers to obtain a Handicap Index, use their Handicap on any course around the world, and compete with anyone else on a fair basis. Below are some frequently discussed topics regarding the Rules of Handicapping:
USGA’s Handicapping Hub (includes content and topics across all things Handicapping)
Treatment of 9-Hole Scores
When a player posts a 9-hole score, it will be combined with their expected Score Differential over 9 holes to create an 18-hole Score Differential for immediate use – with expected score based on the player’s Handicap Index at the time the round is played as well as a course of standard difficulty.
Full FAQs for Treatment of 9-Hole Scores Click Here >>
Treatment of Hole(s) Not Played
When 10-17 holes are played, an 18-hole Score Differential will be determined by adding the player’s Score Differential from the holes played to an expected Score Differential for the number of holes not played. Since a player’s expected score is not specific to a course or reliant upon the course’s stroke index allocation (as net par was), this will lead to more consistency.
Full FAQs for Treatment of Hole(s) Not Played Click Here >>
Printable Infographic for Treatment of Hole(s) Not Played Click Here >>
Changes to Four-Ball Match Play Handicap Calculation
Throughout a given year, most clubs run some form of Four-Ball match play. In the most recent update to the USGA Rules of Handicapping, a change was made to adjust off the unrounded low ball first and make rounding the last step.
In the example below a 7.4 index playing a 12.6 index on a course rated 70.6/137, par 71 using both the old and the new method.
Old Method – double rounding
New Method – rounding is the last step
The change in methodology, which is laid out on page 142 of the Rules of Handicapping, results in Player 2 receiving one more shot now than in the previous rounding method. In the majority of courses and index levels, there will be no difference in the number of strokes received, but the example above shows that there will be some discrepancies. Golf Genius Tournament Management has updated its software to ensure the order of operations is done correctly.
Is the new Method reflected in the GHIN Mobile App?
The new rounding method only applies to four-ball match play circumstances.
If navigating to the “Play with GPS/Games” and select match play on the GHIN Mobile App, the new rounding takes place.
If navigating to the “Handicap Calculator” from the home page of the GHIN App, please ensure you have selected “Match Play” so the correct rounding method takes place.