Let’s dive into some of the best and most popular golf formats you can try out on the course.

Stroke Play (Medal Play)

Stroke play, also known as medal play, is the most common format used in professional tournaments and standard rounds.

The goal is simple: complete the round in the fewest strokes possible.

Every shot counts toward your total score, and the player with the lowest score at the end wins.

It’s a straightforward format that tests consistency, mental toughness, and the ability to recover from mistakes.

• Best For: Players who like to keep track of every shot and enjoy individual competition.
• Challenges: Requires focus over the full 18 holes, as every shot can impact your final score.

Match Play

Match play is a fun alternative to stroke play and is often used in team or head-to-head competitions.

In this format, players or teams compete on a hole-by-hole basis.

Winning a hole gives you one point, and the goal is to win more holes than your opponent by the end of the round.

Match play encourages riskier shots since a single bad hole doesn’t necessarily ruin your round.

• Best For: Competitive golfers who enjoy playing directly against others.
• Challenges: Requires strategy and adapting to your opponent’s performance.

Scramble

The scramble format is one of the most popular in charity events, corporate outings, and casual team rounds. In a scramble, each player on the team hits a tee shot.

The team then selects the best shot and all players hit their next shot from that spot, continuing this process until the ball is holed.

Scrambles promote teamwork and are more forgiving, allowing players of all skill levels to contribute.

• Best For: Team events where fun and camaraderie are the focus.
• Challenges: Coordination is key, and pressure can build when relying on one player’s strengths.

Best Ball (Fourball)

Best Ball, also known as Fourball in team play, is another great team format.

In this format, each player plays their own ball throughout the round.

After each hole, the team takes the best score between the two players.

This format is popular in amateur and professional team events because it allows teammates to rely on each other’s strengths while still playing individually.

• Best For: Teams of two players looking for competitive but low-pressure rounds.
• Challenges: Both teammates need to bring their A-game to ensure the best chance of winning.

Stableford

Stableford is a unique scoring system where points are awarded based on how well a player performs on each hole in relation to par.

For example, scoring one stroke over par (a bogey) might give you one point, while scoring a birdie could earn you three points.

The player with the highest point total at the end of the round wins.

The advantage of Stableford is that it rewards aggressive play, as you can accumulate points quickly without being penalised for a bad hole.

• Best For: Golfers who want to take a more aggressive approach and are looking for an easier scoring system.
• Challenges: Can be confusing at first if you’re used to traditional stroke play scoring.

Foursomes (Alternate Shot)

In Foursomes, two-player teams take turns hitting the same ball.

One player tees off on odd-numbered holes, and the other tees off on even-numbered holes, with players alternating shots until the hole is completed.

It’s a true test of teamwork and communication, as players must rely on each other’s shots and manage different situations together.

• Best For: Players looking to challenge their teamwork and enjoy a faster pace.
• Challenges: Can be difficult if one player struggles, as it affects both teammates’ performance.

Texas Scramble

Texas Scramble is a variation of the traditional scramble format, but with a few added twists.

Each player on the team still hits their tee shot, and the best shot is selected.

However, in Texas Scramble, players must use at least a few of each team member’s tee shots during the round.

This ensures everyone on the team gets involved, adding a strategic element to choosing whose shot to use.

• Best For: Larger groups who want to ensure everyone contributes and has fun.
• Challenges: Requires careful planning on when to use each team member’s tee shots.

Greensomes

Greensomes is a hybrid of Foursomes and Scramble formats.

Both players on a team hit a tee shot, then choose the best one.

From that point on, they alternate shots until the ball is holed.

It’s a fantastic blend of individual skill (on the tee shot) and teamwork (for the rest of the hole), making it a favorite among casual players and teams.

• Best For: Casual, fun rounds that still involve some strategy and skill.
• Challenges: Balancing the aggressive and conservative play needed for tee shots and subsequent shots.

Conclusion: Pick the Format That Suits Your Game

Whether you’re playing in a friendly match or gearing up for a tournament, choosing the right format can make a huge difference in your experience on the course.

From classic stroke play to team-based formats like scrambles and best ball, each format brings its own level of excitement, strategy, and fun.

So the next time you hit the links, why not try something new?

You might just discover a format that makes your round more enjoyable and rewarding!