Match Play
Game Formats
Explained Simply
A format where you compete hole-by-hole. Win a hole, go 1-up. Lose it, go 1-down. Most holes won = winner.
Example
“You win holes 1 and 2 (you're 2-up). Your opponent wins holes 3, 4, 5 (now you're 1-down). Score resets each hole — big blowup holes don't kill you.”
Why it matters
Great for beginners because one bad hole doesn't ruin the match. Common in high-school dual meets — confirm the format with the coach. See [Junior Golf](/junior-golf) for tryout prep.
Common beginner mistake
Conceding the match too early after losing a few holes — matches swing quickly.
Related
casual
Game Formats
Related
- Stroke PlayThe most common format — every stroke counts for the entire round. Lowest total score wins.
- Foursome (Alternate Shot)Two players share ONE ball, hitting alternate shots. Partner A tees off on odd holes, B on even holes. Very different from four-ball.
- NassauA betting format with three separate bets: front 9, back 9, and overall 18. Each worth a set dollar amount (e.g., $2 each).