Choose an opening tee order
Under Rule 22, the partners alternate teeing off to start holes. If A tees on the first hole, B tees on the second, Aon the third and so on, subject to the full rules. Within each hole, they alternate strokes at the single ball.
This is different from four-ball, where each partner plays a ball and the side uses its relevant best score. The similar names are a common source of confusion. Before interpreting a missed shot or substitution, establish which format the session actually uses.
A four-stroke hole makes the distinction visible
Suppose A tees off on hole 1, Bhits the approach, A putts and B holes the fourth stroke. On hole 2, B still takes the tee shot under the alternating-hole tee order. B has therefore played the final stroke of one hole and the first stroke of the next.
That is not a violation of alternate shot. Alternation within a hole and alternation of teeing responsibility across holes are distinct rules. The invented four-stroke example makes the difference easier to see than a generic description of 'taking turns'.
Penalties and unusual situations need the actual rule
Do not resolve an unusual sequence from a brief broadcast cutaway. Rule 22 and the other applicable rules determine penalty treatment and who must play next. A replay may also skip a stroke, making two visible shots by the same partner look consecutive when they were not.
Use the official ruling or complete sequence before accusing a side of playing out of order. For a viewer, a simple partner-and-hole note is enough to follow ordinary play; it is not a substitute for the officials in an exceptional case.
Build the session choice around the format
A foursomes session emphasizes how partners manage one ball and alternating tee assignments. A four-ball session shows each player's own ball and a different set of risks. A singles session has another viewing rhythm. Choose the session whose contest you want rather than treating all team golf as the same game.
Confirm the edition's schedule, current Canadian rights and actual programme description separately. This article explains R&A rules through fictional partners and does not establish IPTV Canada access or report a playback test.
Related questions
Can B hole out and then tee off on the next hole?
Yes in the illustrated sequence: tee responsibility alternates by hole, not according to the last putter.
Do both foursomes partners play their own ball?
No. That describes a different format; foursomes partners alternate with one ball.
Sources and scope
Scope notes distinguish published documentation, supplied information and editorial methods. They do not report a hands-on service test.
- R&A Rule22 Foursomes — Alternate strokes oneball and alternating tee holes
