What happens if your ball hits your partner?

The situation

In a four-ball, foursomes, or scramble, your shot accidentally hits your partner who is standing nearby — or hits their caddie walking up the fairway.

The rule

Under Rule 11.1a, an accidental collision between your ball and your partner, or your partner's caddie, carries no penalty. Play the ball from where it comes to rest. This is the same result as hitting any other person on the course. The rule is completely symmetrical — it doesn't matter whether it was your partner, an opponent, a spectator, or a referee. Accidental contact between a moving ball and any person means no penalty and play from the new position.

Real example

In a four-ball match, you hit a long iron and it strikes your partner's caddie who was walking 50 yards ahead. The ball deflects into a greenside bunker. No penalty — play your next shot from the bunker.

What to do on the course

• Check your partner or their caddie is unhurt — that's the priority
• Play from where ball ends up, no penalty
• In fourball formats, your partner's ball is unaffected — they continue with theirs
• To prevent these situations, communication in the group matters: partners should know where you're hitting and clear the area accordingly

Penalty

No penalty. Play the ball from where it comes to rest.