Rule of the Week – Lifting a Ball to See if Cut or Cracked

If you believe your ball is cut or cracked during play, you may lift it to check. You’ll need to mark its spot and lift the ball without cleaning it (except on the putting green).

Lifting the ball without reasonable belief, failing to mark its spot, or cleaning it when not allowed will result in a one-stroke penalty.

You can substitute the ball only if the damage (cut or crack) is clearly visible and occurred during the hole – scratches, scrapes, or paint damage do not count.

Related Rule – 4.2c(1)