SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/golf-embedded-ball-definition

When does a golf ball count as embedded?

When it is in its own pitch mark from your last stroke, partly below ground.

Start playing free

  1. When someone steps on it and pushes it down
  2. When it sits in its own pitch mark, partly below ground ✔
  3. Whenever the grass is longer than the ball

Why: Rule 16.3a says a ball is embedded only if it is in its own pitch mark from the previous stroke and part of it is below ground level. A ball stepped on is not embedded.

Huh, didn't know that: A ball hit straight into the ground without going airborne is not embedded either.

The dad joke
Why did the golf ball dig in? It wanted to put down roots.
Like this card?
Play the game

References

Answer: When it sits in its own pitch mark, partly below ground. Rule 16.3a says a ball is embedded only if it is in its own pitch mark from the previous stroke and part of it is below ground level. A ball stepped on is not embedded.

  1. The R&A, Rules of Golf, Rule 16 www.randa.org/en/rog/the-rules-of-golf/rule-16
    It is in its own pitch-mark made as a result of the player
    Checked 2026-10-12.

Think this answer is wrong? Tap "Challenge this answer" on the card in the game and tell us why.

Test yourself in the game

Sports & FitnessYour ball plugs in its own pitch mark on the fairway. What relief do you get?Sports & FitnessWhat is the most clubs a golfer may carry during a round?Sports & FitnessWhen is a golf ball at rest out of bounds?

That's stuff everyone should know.