Foursomes vs. four-ball: What’s the difference?

Most people who have played their fair share of golf know that there are lots of competitive formats you can play, such as stroke play, match play, skins games, etc. A couple of these formats — foursomes and four-ball — even sound suspiciously synonymous. But do you know the difference between the two?

Foursomes and four-ball might sound like they can be used interchangeably, but in practice, they are distinctly different games. Given the formats dominate team competitions like the Ryder Cup, Solheim Cup and Zurich Classic it’s important you know the differences. Here’s a brief rundown of what makes each format unique.

Foursomes

Foursomes is a form of team match- or stroke-play covered under Rule 22 in the Rules of Golf.

You may know it as “alternate shot”.

“(Foursomes is) a form of match play or stroke play where you and a partner compete as a side by playing one ball in alternating order on each hole. You and your partner must alternate in teeing off to start each hole.”

Foursomes is often considered the ultimate form of team play because of the trust and collaboration required because you aren’t just playing your own ball; there’s nothing quite like hitting a shot knowing your partner will hit the next one.

Four-ball

Four-ball is also a form of team match or stroke play, and it is covered under Rule 23.

“Four-Ball is a form of play (in either match play or stroke play) involving partners where you and your partner compete together as a side, with each of you playing your own ball, and your side’s score for a hole is the lower score of the two of you on that hole.”

This format is also known by other names, such as low ball or best ball. Even though each player is playing his or her own ball, strategies can vary based on how your teammate or opponent is playing.

Next time you turn on team golf, whether it’s the Ryder Cup, the Solheim Cup or the Zurich Classic, you’ll be an expert.