Glossary

Matchplay

Matchplay is a hole-by-hole contest. You are trying to win more holes than the other player or side.

Big idea

Win holes, not total strokes.

At a glance

Score type

Holes won

Usually played

One side against another

Best for

Head-to-head games

In plain English

Each hole is its own mini-match. If you score lower on a hole, you win that hole. If scores are the same, the hole is halved.

How to win

Get more holes ahead than there are holes left. If you are 3 up with 2 holes to play, the match is over.

Example

3 up with 2 holes left = win 3 & 2
Hand-drawn equation showing 3 up with 2 holes left equals win 3 & 2.

Remember this

  • A terrible hole only loses one hole.
  • The match score might be 1 up, 2 down, or all square.
  • The final result often reads like 3 & 2, or 1 up.

Things to be aware of

Handicap strokes are based on the match format and the players' course handicaps. Check the card and event terms before starting.