When is a hole finished in Four-Ball match play

A Four-Ball hole is over as soon as the result can't change — both partners holed out or conceded, one holed out and the other can't help the side, or the other side already has a lower score than you could possibly make.

The three ways a hole ends

First, the obvious one: both you and your partner have holed out, or you've both had your next putts conceded. That's the clean finish. Second, one of you holes out (or gets a concession) and the other either picks up because the score won't count anyway, or simply chooses not to finish. If your partner makes a 4 and you're lying 6, there's no point putting out — your 7 doesn't help the side. Third, the match-play special: the hole is decided before anyone finishes. If the other side has already made 3 and the best you can do is 4, the hole is over. No need to keep putting.

Why it matters

Knowing when the hole ends saves time and avoids arguments. Once the hole is completed under any of these three scenarios, you can't go back and play more strokes. Concessions are final. And if you keep putting after the hole is decided, you're just slowing things down — the result stands regardless.

Frequently asked questions

Can I keep putting after my partner holes out?

Only if your score could still count for the side. If your partner made 4 and you're lying 5 for a 6, your score doesn't matter — the hole is done and you should pick up.

What if the other side concedes our next strokes?

If both partners have their next strokes conceded, the hole is completed right there. You don't have to actually putt them in.

Does the hole end immediately when the result is decided?

Yes. If the opponents have holed out for 3 and the best your side can make is 4, the hole is over the moment that becomes clear. No more strokes needed.

What happens if I putt out after the hole is already decided?

The extra strokes don't count and don't change the result. The hole was already completed, so anything after that is just practice — but you'll annoy everyone.

Is this different in stroke play Four-Ball?

Yes. In stroke play, the hole isn't completed until at least one partner holes out and the other either holes out, picks up, or is disqualified for the hole. The 'result decided' shortcut doesn't apply.