GOLF.com: Standing Behind Your Partner and Divot Relief — Two Rules Questions Explained

Rule 23.8: When Does Standing Behind a Partner Cross the Line?

In partner formats like foursomes or the Ryder Cup, players often stand behind their partner to read putts. Rule 23.8 and Rule 10.2b(4) do restrict this — but the timing matters.

A player is permitted to stand directly behind their partner before the partner begins taking their stance. The violation occurs only if the player remains there after the stance begins with the intent to assist with aim. This distinction means the line-reading routines commonly seen on TV are generally legal, provided they conclude before the stance is taken.

In scramble formats like the PNC Championship, this rule is routinely set aside — a practical concession given that scrambles already operate outside many standard Rules of Golf.

Divot Relief in a Partner Format

When a marked ball must be replaced but the original spot has been turned into a divot by a partner's shot, the correct procedure under Rule 14.2d is to replace (not drop) the ball. Specifically, it must be placed at the nearest spot within one club-length of the original position, no closer to the hole, in the same area of the course, with the most similar lie to the original. This applies equally in bunkers.

Strokeslab Perspective

Both scenarios highlight a recurring theme in the Rules of Golf: timing and intent are everything. Knowing exactly when a restriction activates — not just that it exists — is what separates informed competitors from those caught off guard.