Who plays first after both players have started a hole in match play?
The ball farther from the hole is played first. If both balls are the same distance or you can't tell which is farther, decide by agreement or flip a coin (Rule 6.4a(1)).
What the rule says
Once both players have hit their tee shots, the order of play is simple: whoever is farther from the hole goes next. It doesn't matter who had the honour on the tee — distance decides from here on out. If the two balls end up at the same distance, or you genuinely can't tell which is farther, you and your opponent agree on who plays first or use a random method like a coin toss. This keeps things fair and moving.
What happens if you play out of turn
In match play, order matters. If you play when it was your opponent's turn, there's no penalty — but your opponent can cancel that stroke. They have to do it promptly, before either of you makes another stroke. If they cancel, you replay from the original spot when it's actually your turn. If they don't cancel, the stroke counts and you play the ball as it lies. It's their call, not yours.
When you can agree to play out of turn
To save time, you can invite your opponent to play out of turn, or agree to their request to do so. If they then make that stroke, you've given up the right to cancel it. This is the "ready golf" exception — but it only works if both of you agree. You can't just play out of turn and claim you were saving time.
Exceptions that change the answer
- Both players agree to play out of turn to save time → The player who played out of turn cannot have their stroke cancelled — the right to cancel is waived
Frequently asked questions
What if we can't tell which ball is farther from the hole?
If the balls are the same distance or you genuinely can't tell, decide by agreement with your opponent or use a random method like flipping a coin (Rule 6.4a(1)).
Can my opponent cancel my stroke if I play out of turn?
Yes. In match play, if you play when it's your opponent's turn, they may cancel the stroke — but they must do so promptly, before either player makes another stroke. If they cancel, you replay from the original spot when it's your turn.
What if we both agree to play ready golf to speed things up?
If you invite your opponent to play out of turn, or agree to their request, and they make the stroke, you've given up the right to cancel it. The exception only applies when both players agree.
Does this rule apply on the teeing area too?
No. On the teeing area, the player with the honour plays first. The "farthest from the hole" rule only kicks in after both players have started the hole.
What happens if I play out of turn and my opponent doesn't say anything?
If your opponent doesn't cancel the stroke promptly, the stroke counts and the ball is in play — you must play it as it lies. Silence means acceptance.