Match Play Golf

Golf Match Play is a head-to-head format where players compete to win individual holes. The player or team with the most holes won takes the match—making it a strategic format featured in events like the Ryder Cup and Presidents Cup.

What is Golf Match Play?

Match play is a classic and exciting golf format where golfers compete directly against each other on a hole-by-hole basis. It’s all about securing more individual hole victories rather than focusing on the lowest total score, which makes every hole meaningful and creates thrilling, fast-paced momentum swings throughout the entire round.

  • 1 UP

    Win Hole

    Player scores fewer strokes on the hole

  • No change

    Halve Hole

    Both players score the same on the hole

  • 1 DOWN

    Lose Hole

    Opponent scores fewer strokes

Key Highlights

  • Win by winning more holes than your opponent.
  • The total number of strokes doesn’t matter—only the result on each hole.
  • Common in Ryder Cup-style events, club matches, and friendly rivalries.
  • Encourages aggressive and strategic play.

How Match Play Works How Match Play Works

  • 1. Each hole is treated as a separate contest.

  • 2. The player with the lower score on a hole wins that hole.

  • 3. If both players tie on a hole (same number of strokes), the hole is halved.

  • 4. The match ends when one player leads by more holes than remain to be played.

  • 5. The player with the most holes won is the winner.

Scoring System Scoring System

  • 2 UP Leading by 2 holes.

  • All Square (AS) tied after the current hole.

  • Dormie Leading by the same number of holes remaining (opponent cannot win outright, only draw).

  • Win 3&2: 3 holes ahead with only 2 holes left, the match ends.

Golf Match Play Scorecard Example

Golf Match Play Scorecard Example

Winner: Player A

Match Play Variations Match Play Golf Variations

  • Singles Match Play

    1-vs-1 head-to-head.

  • Four-Ball (Better Ball)

    2-vs-2 teams, each playing their own ball; the lowest team score wins the hole.

  • Foursomes (Alternate Shot)

    2-vs-2 teams alternate shots on the same ball.

  • Team Match Play (Aggregate)

    Multiple matches between teams; most match wins decide team victory.

Why Play Match Play Why Play Match Play?

  • Focused Competition

    Each hole is its own battle—you can recover from mistakes and fight back.

  • Head-to-Head Rivalries

    Ideal for one-on-one games or team events like the Ryder Cup.

  • Momentum Matters

    Winning streaks and clutch shots can quickly turn a match.

  • Aggressive, Strategic Golf

    Rewards bold decisions—it's about beating your opponent, not total strokes.