What if my partner isn't ready at the starting time in four-ball?

In four-ball, the partner who tees off first has to be ready to play at the exact starting time and starting point. The partner who plays second must be present at the starting time either at the tee or on the hole near where the drive is expected to land. If either partner isn't there, the side breaches Rule 5.3a and gets the general penalty.

Who needs to be where and when

The side picks which partner plays first from the first tee, unless the competition terms say otherwise. That first player must be at the tee, club in hand, ready to swing at the posted starting time — not a minute after. The second player has a bit more flexibility: they need to be at the starting time either at the tee or already out on the hole near where the first drive is likely to finish. Both requirements kick in at the same moment: the official starting time.

What happens if someone's missing

If the first player isn't ready to play at the starting time, the side is in breach of Rule 5.3a. Same deal if the second player is nowhere to be found — not at the tee, not up the fairway near the landing zone. The penalty is the general penalty: two strokes in stroke play, loss of hole in match play. It applies to the side, not just the absent player, so both partners take the hit.

Practical tip for your next four-ball

Decide the playing order before you get to the first tee. Make sure the first player is warmed up and standing at the markers a couple minutes early. The second player should either stand with them or walk forward to the landing area before the starting time hits. A quick "I'll be up by the 150 marker" saves a two-stroke surprise before you've even hit a shot.

Frequently asked questions

Can the second player just show up late at the tee?

No. The second player must be present at the starting time either at the tee or on the hole near the expected landing area. Showing up at the tee five minutes late is a breach.

What if the first player is there but not ready to swing?

They must be "ready to play" at the starting time — meaning in position, club selected, prepared to make a stroke. Standing at the tee checking their phone doesn't count.

Does the competition committee decide who tees off first?

Only if the Terms of the Competition specify it. Otherwise the side chooses which partner plays first.

Is the penalty two strokes each or two strokes total for the side?

Two strokes total for the side in stroke play. In match play it's loss of hole for the side. The penalty applies to the partnership, not individually.

What if the second player is in the bathroom when our starting time hits?

That's a breach. They need to be at the tee or up the fairway near the landing zone at the starting time. Plan bathroom breaks before you check in.