2023 IGA Yearbook

157 2023 RULES OF GOLF: 5 KEY CHANGES The R&A and the USGA have released the most recent edition of the Rules of Golf, effective January 2023. HERE ARE 5 KEY CHANGES New Rule — Modifications for Players with Disabilities Handicap on Scorecard (Stroke Play Only) Ball Moved by Natural Forces Replacing Damaged Clubs Simplified Back-on- the-Line Relief These modifications are now part of the Rules and are in effect for all competitions and all players who fall under the categories covered in new Rule 25. You are not required to put your handicap on your scorecard and there is no penalty if you return your scorecard in a competition with an incorrect handicap, as this is now the Committee’s responsibility. This change is consistent with other penalty reductions, such as reducing the penalty for playing an incorrectly substituted ball from the general penalty to one stroke. When using this relief option, you are required to drop your ball on the line, and it may roll up to one club-length in any direction. If your club is damaged during a round (except in cases of abuse) you may replace it, repair it or continue to use it. When your ball is at rest after taking relief and then rolls into another area of the course due to natural causes, there is no penalty, and you must replace it. For more information on the Rules of Golf, please visit usga.org or randa.org . ©2022 R&A Rules Limited and the United States Golf Association. All rights reserved.