20 new rules of golf 2019

The R&A and the USGA introduced 20 new rules of golf in 2019, aimed at simplifying and modernizing the game. Here are the new rules:

Rule 1: The Game

• The game is played with a ball and a set of clubs.
• The objective is to hit the ball into each hole using the fewest number of strokes possible.

Rule 2: The Player

• A player is responsible for their own actions and equipment.
• Players must not intentionally damage the course or disturb other players.

Rule 3: The Ball

• The ball must be placed on the tee or on the ground.
• The ball must be played as it lies, unless it is moved or deflected by an outside agency.

Rule 4: The Teeing Ground

• The teeing ground is the area from which the ball is played.
• Players must not play from outside the teeing ground.

Rule 5: The Fairway

• The fairway is the area of the course between the teeing ground and the green.
• Players must not play from outside the fairway.

Rule 6: The Rough

• The rough is the longer, thicker grass that borders the fairway.
• Players must not play from outside the rough.

Rule 7: The Green

• The green is the area of the course surrounding the hole.
• Players must not play from outside the green.

Rule 8: The Hole

• The hole is the opening in the ground that the ball must be played into.
• Players must not play from outside the hole.

Rule 9: The Pin

• The pin is the flagstick that marks the hole.
• Players must not touch the pin or the flagstick.

Rule 10: The Ball in Motion

• A ball in motion is a ball that has been hit or is being played.
• Players must not intentionally deflect or stop a ball in motion.

Rule 11: The Ball at Rest

• A ball at rest is a ball that is not in motion.
• Players must not intentionally move a ball at rest.

Rule 12: The Course

• The course is the area where the game is played.
• Players must not intentionally damage the course.

Rule 13: The Equipment

• Equipment includes clubs, balls, and other items used to play the game.
• Players must not use equipment that is not conforming to the rules.

Rule 14: The Player's Equipment

• Players are responsible for their own equipment.
• Players must not use equipment that is not their own.

Rule 15: The Ball's Equipment

• The ball is responsible for its own equipment.
• The ball must not be altered or modified in any way.

Rule 16: The Ball's Condition

• The ball must be in good condition.
• Players must not play a ball that is damaged or altered.

Rule 17: The Ball's Movement

• The ball must move in a straight line when hit.
• Players must not intentionally deflect or stop the ball.

Rule 18: The Ball's Rest

• The ball must come to rest in a natural position.
• Players must not intentionally move the ball to a different position.

Rule 19: The Ball's Position

• The ball must be played from its current position.
• Players must not move the ball to a different position.

Rule 20: The Ball's Recovery

• If the ball is lost or out of bounds, it must be played again.
• Players must not intentionally move the ball to a different position.

These new rules aim to simplify the game and reduce confusion, while also promoting a more enjoyable and respectful experience for all players.