How to correctly mark your ball on the green
One of the first things you will learn when taking up golf is how to mark your ball on the green.
It is a simple, yet important process that every golfer, be it a beginner or a tour player, must learn and uses frequently during a round.
Marking your ball allows you to reset and line up your putt, but it is also a part of golf that is ingrained in the etiquette of the game.
Knowing when, how and why you have to mark your ball, and what to mark it with, will become second nature once you know the basics.
PGA Professional Dominic Knight of Remedy Oak Golf Club breaks it down for us:
Why do I need to mark my ball on the green?
A: You need to mark your ball on the green primarily to avoid interfering with another player’s line of putt and to allow yourself to lift and clean your ball if needed. Marking also ensures consistency in play and protects the integrity of the game. It's a key part of golf etiquette and is required under the Rules of Golf.
Am I allowed to clean my ball once I have marked it?
A: Yes, absolutely. Once you’ve properly marked your ball on the putting green, you’re allowed to lift and clean it before replacing it. That’s one of the benefits of marking — it allows you to ensure your ball is in optimal condition for putting.
Do I have to use a recognised ball marker to mark my ball, or can I use other objects?
A: While most golfers use a small, flat disc as a traditional ball marker, the Rules of Golf are actually quite flexible. You can use other small objects — such as a coin or a tee — as long as they don’t interfere with play or distract other players. That said, it’s best practice to use a proper ball marker for consistency and professionalism.
Am I allowed to use a tee to mark my ball?
A: Yes, a tee is permitted under the Rules of Golf as a ball marker. However, I would recommend using a flat marker where possible, as a tee can be visually distracting to others and could potentially be dislodged more easily.
Do I have to place my marker down behind the ball, or can it be to the side?
A: The standard and recommended practice is to place your ball marker directly behind the ball, in line with the hole. This promotes consistency and helps to avoid confusion. While the rules don’t specify an exact position, placing it directly behind the ball is the accepted convention and is considered proper etiquette.
What steps should I take if a playing partner asks me to move my ball marker if it's in their way?
A: If asked, you should move your marker one or more putter-head lengths to the side, usually using your putter to measure. You should pick out a fixed object to use as a reference point so you can replace the marker where it was exactly. Just be sure to remember to replace your marker in its original position before putting. A good habit is to say aloud what you're doing — for example, "I'm moving it one to the right" — so it's easier to remember later.
Should I carry more than one ball marker when I play golf?
A: Yes, it's smart to carry more than one. Markers can be lost, misplaced, or even needed simultaneously if you’re asked to temporarily mark from a different position. Having a few on hand ensures you’re never caught off guard and demonstrates good preparation and professionalism.
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