Can You Putt with the Flagstick in the Hole?

One of the frequently asked questions in the golfing world is whether a player can put from the green while the flagstick is still in the hole. The answer, according to the updated rules, is yes, you can. This article will provide an in-depth overview of the current rules and the rationale behind this change.

Changes in the Rules

The Rules of Golf underwent a significant update in 2019, with one of the notable changes being the removal of the penalty for putting with the flagstick in the hole. Players now have the freedom to choose whether to leave the flagstick in the hole during putting. This change aims to streamline the game and eliminate unnecessary delays, allowing players to focus more on their performance.

Under the old rules, striking the ball with the flagstick during putting would result in a penalty. However, if the flagstick was in the hole, it was often left there for convenience and to avoid traipsing. Now, players are encouraged to use this option to speed up play and maintain a more fluid game.

Using the Flagstick as a Putt Backstop

Another aspect of the new rule introduces the concept of using the flagstick as a backstop during a long-distance putt. Imagine a 60-foot putt; you wouldn't have to walk to the hole, position the ball, and then return to your spot. With the flagstick remaining in the hole, you can lag your putt right up to the hole, saving time and effort.

Penalties and Considerations

Despite the freedom to use the flagstick during putting, there are still some restrictions and potential penalties to consider:

Attended Flagstick: If your ball hits the flagstick while it is attended (e.g., by a caddy or partner), you would incur a penalty. In matchplay, you would lose the hole. In strokeplay, you would be required to add two penalty strokes to your score for that specific hole. Unattended Flagstick: If the flagstick is not attended and your ball hits it, there is no penalty. As long as the ball does not physically touch the flagstick, you can continue your play without any consequences.

Rule Definition and Discussion

Rule 17 of the current Rules of Golf clearly spells out the penalties and allowances. In essence, if the ball were to lie on the green and touch the flagstick, a 2-stroke penalty would be incurred. However, this rule is under active consideration for future modifications.

The proposed change would allow players to leave the flagstick in the hole for convenience and time-saving purposes. The idea is to foster a quicker pace of play, which is crucial in improving the overall experience and flow of the game.

If implemented, this new rule would significantly impact how players approach putting from various positions. Whether you are putting from the green or from the fairway, the flagstick could become a valuable tool, especially for longer putts.

Conclusion

The golfing community welcomed the 2019 rule changes, which have positively influenced the pace of play. While there are still some caveats to consider, such as attending flagsticks and avoiding physical ball-stick contact, the ability to use the flagstick during putting opens up strategic options that can enhance the game's dynamics.

Stay tuned for any further updates or modifications to this rule, as it continues to shape the way golfers approach the putting green.