What happens if I don't tell my opponent about a penalty?

You lose the hole. In match play, if you incur a penalty and don't tell your opponent as soon as reasonably possible, you get the general penalty — loss of hole (Rule 3.2d(2)). The only exception is if your opponent already knew about it.

When you have to speak up

Match play relies on both players knowing the score. If you get a penalty — any penalty — you must tell your opponent as soon as reasonably possible. That means before they make their next stroke, or before you both leave the green if the penalty happens on the putting green. If you stay quiet, the Rules treat it as if you tried to gain an unfair advantage, so the penalty upgrades to loss of hole.

The one time it doesn't cost you the hole

If your opponent already knew about the penalty, you don't have to say a word. This covers obvious situations — like when your ball is clearly in a penalty area, or you whiff a shot right in front of them. Their knowledge replaces your duty to inform. But if there's any doubt whether they saw it, tell them anyway.

Exceptions that change the answer

• Your opponent already knew about the penalty (for example, it was obvious) → No penalty for failing to inform them; the hole continues normally

Frequently asked questions

What counts as 'as soon as reasonably possible'?

Before your opponent makes their next stroke, or before you both leave the putting green if the penalty happened there. Don't wait until the next tee.

Does this apply to every penalty?

Yes. Stroke penalties, loss-of-hole penalties, even penalties you call on yourself — all of them must be communicated.

What if I realize the penalty several holes later?

You still have to say something as soon as you realize. If the match result isn't final yet, the hole where the penalty happened is adjusted to a loss. If the result is final, the result stands.

What if my opponent didn't hear me say it?

You have to be sure they know. A quiet mutter doesn't count. Make eye contact and say it clearly.

Can we agree to ignore a penalty?

No. You can't agree to waive a Rule in match play. If you both know and stay silent, you're both disqualified under Rule 1.3b.