Thinking about playing in a member-guest tournament or just want to try a new format with your golf buddies? You’ve likely heard the term Four-Ball, a staple of big events like the Ryder Cup and a favorite at clubs everywhere. This guide will walk you through exactly what Four-Ball is, how the scoring works, and a playbook of simple yet effective strategies to help you and your partner come out on top.
At its heart, Four-Ball is a team game played by two teams of two golfers (four balls in play on every hole... hence the name). It’s one of the most popular and enjoyable formats because while you compete as a team, you still get to play your own ball from tee to green on every single hole. You're never scrambling or hitting from your partner's drive, you play your own game from start to finish.
The magic of the format lies in how the team score is determined. On each hole, you and your partner both play out the hole. If you make a 4 and your partner makes a 5, the team score for that hole is 4. Only the lower of the two scores - the "better ball" - counts for your team. If you both happen to make the same score, like a pair of 4s, the team score is simply 4.
It’s a simple concept, but it creates a fantastic dynamic of teamwork, strategy, and risk-taking. The format can be played in two main variations: Match Play and Stroke Play.
This is the version you see in the Ryder Cup and Presidents Cup. In match play, your two-person team is competing directly against one other two-person team. The goal isn't to post the lowest raw score, but to win the most individual holes.
Match play is a head-to-head battle where every hole is a new contest.
This is often called "Better Ball" and is the most common format for club tournaments, charity outings, and member-guests. Here, your two-person team is competing against every other team in the field.
The strategy is slightly different because every single stroke counts toward your final total. One big number can knock you out of contention.
Golf has a ton of team formats, and it's easy to get them mixed up. Understanding the key differences is crucial for knowing the rules and deploying the right strategy.
This is the most common point of confusion. The two are fundamentally different.
This is another popular match play format you'll see in team competitions like the Ryder Cup.
Four-Ball isn't just about two good golfers playing on the same team, it's about two golfers playing smart together. The best teams know how to leverage the format to their advantage. Here’s a simple playbook to follow.
The classic and most effective Four-Ball strategy is to assign roles on each shot. One player plays the "safe" or "conservative" shot, while the other is freed up to play the "aggressive" shot.
This frees one player from the fear of a bad result, which often leads to better, more committed swings and unlocks birdie opportunities that you wouldn't risk in a normal individual round.
The best teams talk constantly. You are not two individuals, you are a single unit. Constant, clear communication prevents silly mistakes and gives you a strategic edge.
The mental aspect is just as important as the physical one. Your a 'tude affects your partner's game.
One final component worth understanding is how handicaps work, since most club-level Four-Ball events use them to level the playing field.
Typically, each player doesn't get to use their full course handicap. A percentage is used - most commonly 85% or 90%. For example, if your course handicap is 10, in a 90%-allowance event, you'd get 9 strokes.
Knowing exactly when you "get a shot" is fundamental. Double-check the rules sheet before your round to be sure of the allowance and method.
Four-Ball is arguably one of the most fun and strategic ways to play golf. It's the perfect blend of individual competition and team partnership, allowing you to play your own game while having the comfort of a backup. The core idea is simple: leverage two chances on every hole to produce one great score, using smart communication and strategy to give your team the upper hand.
As you're teeing up with your partner, deciding whether to hit the safe iron or "go for it" with the driver, having a bit of expert insight can make all the difference. Sometimes you need a second opinion on that risk/reward decision, and that's exactly where an AI tool like Caddie AI can become an impartial third teammate. I can analyze the hole layout for you in seconds, assess the trouble, and recommend a strategy that gives your team the highest chance of success, helping you confidently make the aggressive or conservative play an informed decision.
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