What happens if a rules official gives me a wrong ruling in my match?

A referee's wrong ruling stands once you tee off on the next hole. It can only be corrected before that if the Committee acts in time, or later if the match isn't final yet.

The ruling sticks once play continues

Under Rule 20.1b, if a referee or the Committee makes a ruling that turns out to be wrong, that ruling stands once either player makes a stroke on the next hole. You can't go back and undo it just because video or a rules book shows it was wrong. The only way to fix it is if the Committee corrects it before the next hole starts, or if the match result isn't final yet and the error is discovered in time.

When a wrong ruling can still be fixed

If you realize the ruling was wrong before anyone tees off on the next hole, tell the referee or Committee right away — they can correct it. If the match is over but the result hasn't been posted as final, you can still ask for a ruling. If the Committee finds your opponent breached a rule, the match score adjusts and you may have to go back out and finish the match. A request for a ruling must be made promptly once you know the facts, not just when you learn something was a penalty.

You can't play two balls in match play

Unlike stroke play, you're not allowed to play out the hole with two balls when you're unsure about a ruling. If you do play a second ball anyway, the score with your original ball counts — but only if you and your opponent refer the situation to the Committee and your opponent didn't object to the second ball. The referee's decision on the original ball is what matters.

Exceptions that change the answer

• The wrong ruling is discovered before either player tees off on the next hole → The Committee can and should correct the ruling before play continues.
• The match is complete but the result isn't yet final → A player can still request a ruling; if a breach is found, the match score adjusts and players may resume the match.
• A player plays a second ball without the opponent objecting and the situation is referred to the Committee → The score with the original ball counts, not the second ball.

Frequently asked questions

Can I appeal a referee's decision after I've played the next hole?

No. Once either player makes a stroke on the next hole, the referee's ruling is final and cannot be changed, even if it was wrong.

What if I realize the ruling was wrong after the match ends but before the result is posted?

You can still request a ruling. If the Committee finds a breach by your opponent, the match score is adjusted and you may have to return to the course to finish the match.

Does it matter when I learned it was a penalty, or when I knew the facts?

The clock starts when you become aware of the facts, not when you realize those facts mean a penalty. You must request a ruling promptly after knowing the facts.

Can I play two balls in match play like in stroke play when I'm unsure?

No. Playing two balls is not allowed in match play. If you do, only the original ball's score counts, and only if you and your opponent refer it to the Committee and your opponent didn't object.

What if my opponent and I agree the referee was wrong after the hole is over?

You can't override the referee yourselves. The ruling stands unless the Committee corrects it before the next hole starts, or the match result isn't final yet.