WHS Handicapping Overview

1. Course Rating and Slope Rating

• Minimum Length Requirements: To obtain a Course Rating and Slope Rating, an 18-hole course must be at least 1,500 yards long, and a 9-hole course must be at least 750 yards. This reduction from previous requirements allows more courses, including shorter and par-3 courses, to be eligible for score posting purposes.

2. Posting Scores

• Acceptable Scores: Scores from 18-hole rounds, 9-hole rounds, and rounds with 10 to 17 holes played are acceptable for handicap purposes.

• 9-Hole Rounds: When a player posts a 9-hole score, the system automatically calculates an 18-hole Score Differential based on the player's current Handicap Index and an expected score for the unplayed holes. This allows the 9-hole score to be included in the player's Handicap Index immediately.

• 10-17 Hole Rounds: For rounds with 10 to 17 holes played, the system combines the player's Score Differential from the holes played with an expected score for the unplayed holes to determine an 18-hole Score Differential.

3. Handling Holes Not Played

• Expected Score Method: When a hole is not played (e.g., due to darkness), the system adds the player's Score Differential from the holes played to an expected Score Differential for the number of holes not played. This approach replaces the previous method of assigning a net par for unplayed holes, leading to more consistent and equitable results.

4. Handicap Index Calculation

• Calculation Method: A player's Handicap Index is calculated using the best 10 of their most recent 20 scores. The formula considers the adjusted gross score, course rating, and slope rating to determine the Score Differential for each round.

• Maximum Score Per Hole: The maximum score a player can post on a hole for handicap purposes is net double bogey.

5. Handicap Reviews

• Regular Reviews: Handicap Committees are encouraged to conduct regular reviews, at least annually, to ensure a player's Handicap Index remains reflective of their current ability.

• Enhanced Guidance: The WHS provides enhanced guidance and tools to assist Handicap Committees in conducting these reviews effectively and consistently.

6. Stroke Index Allocation

• Allocation Method: The WHS recommends a data-based approach for allocating stroke index values, considering overall hole difficulty relative to par. This method aims to provide equity in match play and other forms of stroke play, such as four-ball stroke play and stableford.

7. Playing Conditions Calculation (PCC)

• Adjustment Frequency: The PCC has been modified to increase the likelihood of an adjustment for abnormal playing conditions. National associations were given discretion to introduce this revision, which was completed by April 1, 2024.

Core Purposes of the WHS:

1. Equity for All Golfers
• Allows players of different skill levels and from different countries to compete on an equal footing, regardless of the course or format.

2. Global Standardization
• Replaces multiple regional handicapping systems (e.g., USGA, CONGU, Golf Australia) with a single, universal system used in more than 100 countries.

3. Accuracy & Responsiveness
• The WHS provides a more current reflection of a player's potential ability by factoring in the best 8 out of the last 20 scores and adjusting for course difficulty and playing conditions.

4. Encouragement of Participation
• Makes it easier and more appealing for casual and serious golfers to maintain a handicap and participate in competitions.

5. Flexibility
• Accommodates scores from 9-hole rounds, 18-hole rounds, and even partially completed rounds (10–17 holes), increasing accessibility.

6. Integrity of the Game
• Promotes honest play and reporting by emphasizing peer review, digital score tracking, and Handicap Committee oversight.

In Summary:

The WHS exists to ensure that every golfer, no matter where or how they play, can obtain and maintain a handicap that is fair, portable, and reflective of their ability.