Introduction - Rules of Golf 2019
This book contains the Rules of Golf that will come into effect worldwide from January 2019. This edition updates the rules of golf to meet the current needs of the game. It is the result of a Rules Modernisation Initiative undertaken by past and present representatives of the Rules Committees of the R&A and USGA, together with representatives from all levels of the game, and reflects the feedback of thousands of golfers worldwide.
This work (modernising the rules) is important and far-reaching while still retaining the essential principles and characteristics of the game, taking into account the needs of all golfers, and making the rules easier to understand and apply for all golfers. The revised rules are more consistent, simpler and fairer.
These rules look very different from previous editions. You will notice that they are written in a simple and modern language and style. The layout has been designed to be easier to follow and navigate. There are more graphics. Each rule now has a Statement of Purpose to help readers better understand the principles behind each rule.
The Rules of Golf are meant to be comprehensive and provide answers to the issues that arise in a sport that is played around the world, on many types of courses and by players of varying abilities. To assist all golfers, we have also created a Players Edition, a booklet that we hope will be the most widely used on and off the course. It covers the rules that most often come up on the course and is a condensed version of the full rules of golf. To assist referees, committees and others who want more detail, we are releasing a new Official Guide, containing Rules Interpretations and Committee Rules with recommendations and suggestions for how to run tournaments and general play. All versions are available in paper or electronic format.
We believe that golfers will find the new rules fairer, less complicated, more enjoyable, and more responsive to the issues facing the game, such as improving the pace of play and protecting the environment.
We express our appreciation not only to our committees and staff for the tremendous work they have done, but also to everyone who has contributed to this historic change.
David Bonsall - Chairman of the Rules Committee - R&A
Mark Reinemann - Chairman of the Rules Committee - USGA