As of my last update in October 2023, here are some of the significant changes and updates to the Rules of Golf made in recent years by the United States Golf Association (USGA) and The R&A. While there may not be brand new rules in 2024, these are some of the key rules that have been in effect and impactful:
1. *Ball at Rest Moved*: If a player accidentally moves their ball during a search, there is no penalty, and the ball must be replaced. This rule is designed to eliminate penalties that are not based on skill.
2. *Double Hit*: When a player's club accidentally hits the ball more than once during a stroke, it counts as just one stroke, and there is no penalty.
3. *Time for Ball Search*: The time allowed to search for a lost ball has been reduced from five minutes to three minutes. This change is intended to improve pace of play.
4. *Dropping Procedure*: The procedure for dropping the ball has been simplified. Players are now required to drop the ball from knee height, rather than shoulder height, to ensure more consistency and fewer penalties.
5. *Putting with the Flagstick In*: Players are now allowed to putt with the flagstick in the hole. This change aims to simplify the putting process and speed up play.
6. *Repairing Spike Marks*: Players are allowed to repair spike marks and other damage on the putting green, even if it’s not on their line of putt. This is intended to ensure fairness when putting.
7. *Penalty Areas*: Water hazards have been replaced by the term “penalty areas,” which can now include areas without water. This allows committees more flexibility in designating areas of the course as penalty areas, thereby speeding up play.
8. *Embedded Ball*: Relief for an embedded ball is allowed anywhere in the general area (previously the “through the green”), except when embedded in sand within a bunker.
9. *Distance Measuring Devices*: The new rules permit the use of distance measuring devices unless a local rule has been adopted prohibiting their use.
10. *Caddie Alignment*: Caddies are no longer permitted to stand behind a player to help line up a shot or putt. This rule reinforces that alignment is a fundamental skill in golf.
While these are some of the important rules that were introduced in the 2019 overhaul and remain significant today, it’s always advisable for players to consult the official USGA or R&A resources for the most current and detailed rule changes, as golf's governing bodies periodically update rules to reflect the evolving nature of the sport and its play.
The writer is Chairman, Tournament Committee, Kurmitola Golf Club
