[Golf Beginner Etiquette⑤] On the Green, "Keep Distance, Be Careful"

Green arrival immediate mark, Won-gu batting principle, repair damaged areas, avoid stepping on opponent's line, plant flag and play 'OK'

There is no penalty in green even if foreign substances are removed.

[Asia Economy Reporter No Woo-rae] There is a place where "gollini" (golf + children) show their "tee."

It is right on the green. This is the place where the score is directly affected. More careful consideration for fellow players is necessary. The principle of "first to play is the one farthest from the hole" applies. The golfer whose ball is farthest from the hole cup plays first. This rule applies even if the green is missed. Even if the ball lands in the rough around the green, if it is closer than a ball on the green, it can be played later. Of course, for faster play, if safety is ensured, it is recommended to play first regardless of distance.

The green is a sensitive area. Efforts are made to maintain it in the best condition. It is courteous not to step on the opponent’s putting line, as the ball’s direction can be slightly altered. Actions such as dragging golf shoes while walking on the green or damaging the green with a putter are absolutely prohibited. It should be cherished and treated as if it were your own home. The Royal & Ancient Golf Club of St Andrews (R&A) and the United States Golf Association (USGA) have significantly relaxed penalties on the green.

Penalties will not be given if the action is accidental, reasonable, or for the application of rules. Spike marks, damage caused by shoes or animals on the green can be repaired. When an opponent is putting, remain quiet. Since putting is a sensitive stroke, noise can have a negative effect. If the opponent’s ball is in a position similar to your own, sometimes players watch from directly behind to read the line.

It is good to observe the line, but stay far enough not to be in the opponent’s line of sight. Be careful not to cast a shadow. The same applies when standing on the opposite side during putting. Never interfere due to your position. Upon arriving at the green, mark your ball immediately. This is the minimum etiquette for smooth play. Especially when the ball is in front of the hole cup, marking is mandatory. This is in case the partner’s approach shot hits the ball.

Conversely, if the ball is behind the hole cup, it can be left as is. It may even serve to block the opponent’s ball. It is not advisable for the caddie to place the ball just before putting. The player should do it themselves. This can help in training to read the line. There is no penalty for touching the putt line with a club or flagstick. It also does not matter if the ball hits the flagstick when playing with the flagstick in place. In other words, it is acceptable to play with the flagstick inserted.

There are gollinis who practice again when the putt misses the hole. This is rude behavior. If you want to take one more stroke because you regret missing, it is wise to do so after all fellow players have holed out. Try to finish putting even on short distances as much as possible. Successfully making short putts builds confidence for long putts. Even when making a birdie, excessive celebration should be restrained. Consider the feelings of fellow players whose scores are poor.