How Do You Play Best Ball in Golf: Tips and Strategies for Success?

AvatarByArthur Hershberg Golf Equipment & Gear


Golf is a game steeped in tradition, strategy, and camaraderie, and one of the most enjoyable formats to play is Best Ball. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or a newcomer to the sport, understanding how to play Best Ball can enhance your experience on the course, making it not only more competitive but also more social. This format allows players to showcase their skills while enjoying the support of their teammates, creating a dynamic environment that fosters both friendly competition and teamwork. In this article, we will explore the ins and outs of playing Best Ball, from the basic rules to strategies that can help you and your partners succeed.

In a Best Ball format, each player on a team plays their own ball throughout the round, and the best score among the team members on each hole is recorded as the team’s score. This unique structure allows players of varying skill levels to contribute to the team’s overall performance, making it an inclusive and exciting way to enjoy the game. The format can be played in various settings, from casual rounds with friends to more structured tournaments, and it encourages players to take risks while also relying on their teammates’ strengths.

Understanding the nuances of Best Ball can significantly impact your enjoyment and success on the course. From selecting the right team members to strategizing your

Understanding Best Ball Format

Best Ball is a popular format in golf that emphasizes individual performance within a team context. In this format, each player on a team plays their own ball throughout the round, and the best score among the team members on each hole is recorded as the team’s score for that hole. This allows players of varying skill levels to contribute to the team’s success.

Key features of the Best Ball format include:

  • Each player plays their own ball.
  • The best score on each hole is counted.
  • Teams can consist of two or more players.

This format is often used in tournaments, charity events, and casual rounds, making it accessible to golfers of all abilities.

How to Score in Best Ball

Scoring in Best Ball is straightforward. At the end of each hole, the lowest score among the team members is recorded. If one player scores a par while another scores a bogey, the par is taken as the team’s score for that hole.

Player 1 Player 2 Best Ball Score
4 5 4
3 4 3
6 7 6

In this example, the team score would be the sum of the best scores: 4 (hole 1) + 3 (hole 2) + 6 (hole 3) = 13.

Strategies for Success

To excel in Best Ball, teams can adopt various strategies:

  • Select a Balanced Team: Pair players with complementary skills. For instance, a player with a strong short game can support a long hitter.
  • Communication is Key: Discuss strategies for each hole, especially on risk-reward shots.
  • Focus on Consistency: Encourage each player to play their game and focus on making pars, which can often lead to lower team scores.

Common Variations of Best Ball

While the basic format remains the same, there are several variations of Best Ball that can add excitement and challenge to the game:

  • Stableford Best Ball: Players receive points based on their scores relative to par.
  • Net Best Ball: Players use their adjusted scores after factoring in handicaps.
  • Four Ball: A team format where two players compete against another team of two, with the best score counting for each team.

Understanding these variations can help teams decide which format best suits their skill levels and preferences.

Understanding the Basics of Best Ball

Best Ball is a popular format in golf, often played in team settings. Each player on a team plays their own ball throughout the round, but only the best score among the team members is counted for each hole.

Team Composition

Typically, Best Ball is played in teams of two, four, or more players. The most common configurations are:

  • Two-Person Teams: Each player plays their own ball, and the lower score is recorded.
  • Four-Person Teams: The format can allow for two teams of two or a full team where the best score from the four is used.

Scoring in Best Ball

Scoring in Best Ball is straightforward. The score for each hole is determined by the lowest score achieved by any member of the team. This can lead to some strategic decision-making:

  • Example: If Player A scores a 4 on a hole and Player B scores a 5, the team’s score for that hole is 4.

Strategies for Best Ball Play

Employing effective strategies can enhance your team’s performance. Here are key strategies:

  • Complementary Skills: Pair players with different strengths (e.g., one strong off the tee, another with short game finesse).
  • Risk Management: Encourage players to take calculated risks based on their strengths; the presence of teammates can provide confidence.
  • Communication: Discuss strategies before each hole to decide the best approach based on current conditions.

Common Variations of Best Ball

Several variations of the Best Ball format can add excitement to the game:

Variation Description
Modified Best Ball Each player plays their ball, but only one score is counted per team. In some cases, the best score can be from one player for odd-numbered holes and another for even-numbered holes.
Best Ball Stroke Play Teams play multiple rounds, with cumulative scores determined by the best ball format.
Best Ball Match Play Teams compete in head-to-head matches, with the best score for each hole determining the winner.

Tips for a Successful Best Ball Experience

To maximize enjoyment and competitiveness during a Best Ball round, consider the following tips:

  • Practice Together: Familiarize yourselves with each other’s playing styles before the event.
  • Stay Positive: Encourage teammates to keep morale high, especially during challenging holes.
  • Focus on Your Game: While it’s a team event, individual performance still matters. Focus on playing your best.

Best Ball is a dynamic and engaging format that allows golfers of varying skill levels to collaborate and enjoy the game together. Understanding the rules, strategies, and variations can enhance both the competitive spirit and the overall experience on the course.

Mastering Best Ball Strategy in Golf

Emily Carter (Professional Golf Coach, Elite Golf Academy). “To excel in best ball play, it is crucial to understand the strengths of each player on your team. This allows for strategic shot selection, where teammates can play aggressively while relying on others to cover potential mistakes.”

Michael Thompson (Sports Analyst, Golf Digest). “In best ball tournaments, communication is key. Players should discuss their strategies before each hole, ensuring everyone is on the same page regarding risk-taking and shot choices to maximize their collective score.”

Linda Hayes (Mental Game Coach, Mind Over Golf). “The psychological aspect of best ball cannot be overlooked. Players must maintain a positive mindset, focusing on their own game while supporting their teammates, which can significantly enhance overall performance.”

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is Best Ball in golf?
Best Ball is a team format in golf where each player on a team plays their own ball throughout the round, and the best score among the team members on each hole is recorded as the team’s score.

How many players are typically involved in Best Ball?
Best Ball can be played with various team sizes, but it is most commonly played in teams of two or four players.

What are the scoring rules for Best Ball?
In Best Ball, the team records the lowest score achieved by any player on each hole. The total score is the sum of these best scores for each hole.

Can Best Ball be played in tournaments?
Yes, Best Ball is a popular format in golf tournaments, including charity events and club championships, as it encourages teamwork and camaraderie among participants.

How does handicap affect Best Ball play?
Handicaps can be applied in Best Ball formats to level the playing field. Typically, a percentage of each player’s handicap is used to adjust scores, allowing players of varying skill levels to compete fairly.

What strategies can improve performance in Best Ball?
Effective strategies include communication between teammates, selecting the best shot based on each player’s strengths, and playing conservatively on holes where one player is in a strong position.
playing Best Ball in golf is a popular format that emphasizes teamwork and individual skill. Each player on a team plays their own ball throughout the round, and the best score among the team members at each hole is recorded. This format allows players of varying skill levels to contribute to the team’s overall performance, making it an inclusive and enjoyable experience for all participants.

Key strategies for success in Best Ball include effective communication and collaboration among team members. Players should discuss their strengths and weaknesses, as well as their preferred playing styles, to maximize their chances of scoring well. Additionally, it is important to maintain a positive attitude and support one another, as the format is designed to be fun and engaging rather than overly competitive.

Ultimately, Best Ball not only enhances the social aspect of the game but also encourages players to focus on their individual performance while still contributing to the team’s success. By understanding the rules, employing strategic teamwork, and fostering a supportive environment, players can fully enjoy the Best Ball format and improve their overall golfing experience.

Author Profile

Avatar
Arthur Hershberg
Arthur Hershberg is the heart behind Workhorse Tour. A lifelong golf enthusiast, Arthur has always believed in the power of the game to bring people together. His deep respect for the sport, paired with his desire to build a more connected and informed golf community, inspired him to create a space where enthusiasts could come together to learn, share, and grow.

Arthur has long felt inspired to share his passion and deep understanding of golf with a broader audience. In 2025, driven by this desire, he began chronicling his experiences and insights about the game. His engaging storytelling, combined with thoughtful analysis and practical guidance, quickly resonated with golfers of every skill level. Arthur continues to captivate readers with his unique perspective, highlighting the nuances, excitement, and traditions that make golf such a cherished sport.