Different Types of Golf Tournaments: 11 Best Formats 2026

Feeling lost in a sea of scrambles, shambles, and skins? You’re not alone; the sheer number of different types of golf tournaments can be confusing, making it hard to choose the right one for your event or even just understand the competition you’re watching.

Different types of golf tournaments encompass various playing styles and scoring methods, from individual challenges like Stroke Play to team-focused events like Scramble, each governed by specific rules to ensure fair and engaging competition. These formats determine how players or teams compete, how scores are calculated, and ultimately, the overall experience of the event.

Drawing from established best practices and a deep analysis of official golf rules, this guide will demystify the 11 most popular golf tournament formats. You’ll discover not only how each one works but also gain the confidence to pick the perfect format for any occasion, from a competitive club championship to a fun-filled charity fundraiser.

Mastering Different Types of Golf Tournaments: Your Guide to 11 Best Formats in 2026

Understanding the various golf competition types is the first step toward hosting a successful event or simply enjoying your next round with friends. Each format offers a unique experience, influencing strategy, pace of play, and the overall social atmosphere. Whether you’re planning a corporate outing, a competitive match, or a casual weekend game, knowing the difference between a best ball and a shamble can transform the day from good to great. This guide breaks down the most common golf event formats explained in clear, simple terms, empowering you to choose with confidence.

11 Best Golf Tournament Formats Explained for 2026

From the pure individual test of Stroke Play to the collaborative fun of a Scramble, the world of golf tournament formats is rich and varied. Each style has its own set of rules, scoring methods, and strategic nuances that make it suitable for different goals and player skill levels. Below, we dive into 11 of the best and most popular formats, providing a clear breakdown of how to play, what you’ll need, and expert tips to help you master each one. This section will serve as your definitive guide to understanding and implementing these exciting golf competition types.

1. Scramble: The Ultimate Team-Building Format

Pin this winning golf scramble strategy to your ‘Tournament Ideas’ board!

The golf scramble is arguably the most popular of all fun golf formats for tournaments, especially for charity events and corporate outings. Its appeal lies in its team-centric approach, where players of all skill levels can contribute without the pressure of individual scoring. In this format, the team collaborates on shots, ensuring that every hole is played from the best possible position and creating a low-stress, social atmosphere.

What You Need for a Scramble Tournament:

• Teams: Typically 2-4 players per team (can vary).
• Golf Balls: Each player uses their own golf ball, but only one “best ball” is chosen per shot.
• Scoring System: A method for tracking the single best score for the team on each hole. Golf tournament software often helps with this.

How to Play a Scramble:

1. All players tee off on each hole.
2. The team selects the best drive. All other players pick up their balls and drop them within one club-length (no closer to the hole) of the selected best ball.
3. Each player hits their next shot from this spot.
4. Repeat steps 2 and 3 until the ball is holed. On the green, balls are placed on the exact spot of the best ball.
5. Record the single team score for the hole.
6. The team with the lowest total score wins.

Pro-Tip: In my experience managing golf tournaments, a scramble strategy emphasizing consistent drives and strong short game players for choosing the best ball is critical. Encourage open communication within the team.

2. Best Ball: Leveraging Individual Strengths for Team Success

Save this best ball strategy to your ‘Golf Competition’ ideas!

Often played as a two-man best ball or four-person team event, the best ball format (also known as Four-Ball) allows players to play their own game while still contributing to a team score. Unlike a scramble, each player plays their own ball from tee to hole. This format highlights the relationship of individual effort contributing to a collective outcome and is one of the most common team golf formats in club competitions.

What You Need for a Best Ball Tournament:

• Teams: Typically 2, 3, or 4 players per team (most commonly 2-person or 4-person).
• Individual Golf Balls: Each player plays their own ball from tee to green.
• Scoring System: Method to identify and record the lowest score from the team on each hole.

How to Play Best Ball:

1. Each player plays their own ball throughout the entire hole.
2. After all players on the team have completed the hole, the lowest score among the teammates is chosen as the team’s score for that hole.
3. Record only the best score for the team.
4. Repeat for all holes.
5. The team with the lowest total aggregate of best scores wins.
6. Handicaps are typically applied to individual scores before determining the best score, to ensure fair competition.

Pro-Tip: When playing best ball, strategy often involves aggressive play from one team member to aim for birdies, while another plays conservatively to ensure a par. This balance enhances experience for diverse skill levels.

3. Stroke Play: The Ultimate Test of Individual Skill

Track your progress with stroke play rules – pin for later!

Stroke Play is the most common format in professional golf and one of the core individual golf formats. In this traditional format, the objective is simple: complete a round (or multiple rounds) in the fewest possible strokes. Every shot counts, making it a true test of a golfer’s consistency, mental fortitude, and adherence to the official golf competition rules.

What You Need for Stroke Play:

• Individual Golfer: Each player competes against the entire field.
• Golf Ball: Each player uses their own ball from tee to green.
• Scoring Device: A scorecard or electronic device to meticulously record every stroke taken.

How to Play Stroke Play:

1. Each player plays their own ball from the teeing ground to the hole.
2. Every stroke taken, including practice swings that move the ball, penalty strokes, and putts, must be counted.
3. Players must complete each hole. If a ball is lost or unplayable, the player must take a penalty and proceed according to the rules of golf.
4. At the end of the round (typically 18 holes), the total number of strokes is summed up.
5. The player with the lowest total gross (or net after handicap) score for the stipulated round wins.

Pro-Tip: For competitive golf formats like stroke play, maintaining a strong mental game is paramount. Focus on one shot at a time and avoid dwelling on past mistakes to improve golf tournament play.

4. Match Play: Head-to-Head Golf Competition

Understand the match play vs stroke play differences – pin for strategic insights!

Unlike stroke play, Match Play is not about the total score. Instead, players compete against each other on a hole-by-hole basis. This format, famously used in events like the Ryder Cup, creates a dramatic, head-to-head battle where a single disastrous hole doesn’t ruin the entire round. The scoring is simple: you either win, lose, or tie (halve) the hole.

What You Need for Match Play:

• Two Competitors: Can be two individuals or two teams (e.g., Foursomes or Four-ball).
• Golf Balls: Each individual plays their own ball.
• Scoring Method: A way to track which player/team wins each hole.

How to Play Match Play:

1. Players compete hole by hole. The player (or team) who completes the hole in fewer strokes wins that hole.
2. If both players (or teams) take the same number of strokes, the hole is “halved” (tied).
3. The match is won when one player (or team) is more holes up than there are holes remaining to be played.
4. A player can concede a stroke or a hole at any time.
5. Handicaps are typically applied by giving strokes on specific holes according to the scorecard’s stroke index.

Pro-Tip: Understanding match play concessions rules is key. A conceded putt, for instance, can significantly speed up play and is a strategic element often used to gain a psychological edge or to maintain pace in competitive golf formats.

5. Shamble: Blending Teamwork and Individual Play

Discover the unique shamble tournament rules – pin to your ‘Golf Event Planning’ board!

A common point of confusion is the scramble vs shamble comparison. A shamble tournament is a popular hybrid of hybrid golf formats that combines the team-based tee shot of a scramble with individual play for the remainder of the hole. This format offers the best of both worlds: it reduces the pressure of a bad drive while still allowing players to experience their own ball through to the hole.

What You Need for a Shamble Tournament:

• Teams: Typically 2-4 players per team.
• Golf Balls: Each player needs their own ball.
• Scoring Method: Can be individual scores, or the team’s best one or two individual scores on each hole.

How to Play a Shamble:

1. All players tee off on each hole (like a Scramble).
2. The team selects the best drive among all players.
3. From the location of the best drive, each player then plays their own ball individually until it is holed out (like Stroke Play).
4. The team score is determined in one of several ways:
   • The best one or two individual net scores from the team on that hole.
   • The aggregate of all individual net scores.
5. Repeat for all holes.
6. Handicaps are typically applied to individual scores before determining the team score.

Pro-Tip: The key to a successful shamble tournament is a strong drive from at least one player, followed by consistent individual play. It’s an excellent format for making golf events fun while still allowing for individual challenge.

6. Stableford: A Points-Based Approach to Golf Scoring

Learn Stableford scoring explained – pin this points system guide!

Tired of one bad hole ruining your scorecard? The Stableford scoring system is the answer. This points system golf format awards points based on your score relative to par on each hole, rather than counting total strokes. Good scores are rewarded handsomely, while a blow-up hole simply results in zero points, allowing you to move on quickly. A modified Stableford is also commonly used in professional events.

What You Need for Stableford Scoring:

• Individual Golfer: Each player competes against the field.
• Golf Ball: Each player uses their own ball.
• Scoring Method: A scorecard capable of tracking points rather than just strokes.

How to Play Stableford:

1. Each player plays their own ball throughout the hole.
2. Points are awarded based on the number of strokes taken relative to a fixed score for each hole (usually par, adjusted for handicap). A common point system (USGA recommendation) is:
   • Albatross (3 under par): 5 points
   • Eagle (2 under par): 4 points
   • Birdie (1 under par): 3 points
   • Par: 2 points
   • Bogey (1 over par): 1 point
   • Double Bogey or worse: 0 points
3. If a player cannot score any points on a hole (e.g., they will get worse than a bogey), they can pick up their ball to speed up play.
4. The player with the highest total points at the end of the round wins.
5. Handicaps are usually applied to adjust the individual’s “net” score relative to par.

Pro-Tip: The Stableford points system is fantastic for making golf accessible to all skill levels and for preventing one disastrous hole from ruining a player’s entire round. This promotes more enjoyable golf event guidelines.

7. Alternate Shot: A True Test of Partnership

Master alternate shot teamwork – pin this guide for your next duo!

Also known as Foursomes golf, the Alternate Shot format is a true test of partnership and one of the most demanding teamwork golf formats. In a two-person team, players take turns hitting the same ball. This format requires immense trust, strategic alignment, and the ability to recover from your partner’s miscues, making it a favorite in high-stakes team competitions.

What You Need for Alternate Shot:

• Two-Person Team: This format is specifically designed for pairs.
• One Golf Ball: The team shares a single golf ball throughout the hole.
• Scoring Method: Stroke play applies to the team’s shared ball.

How to Play Alternate Shot (Foursomes):

1. Players decide who will tee off on odd-numbered holes and who on even-numbered holes (this remains consistent for the round).
2. The first player tees off.
3. The second player then hits the next shot from where the first player’s ball landed.
4. Players continue to alternate shots until the ball is holed.
5. Record the total number of strokes for the team on each hole.
6. The team with the lowest aggregate score wins.
7. Handicaps are often combined for the team and then applied to the total score.

Pro-Tip: Communication is vital in alternate shot. Before hitting, partners should discuss yardage, club choice, and potential hazards to improve golf tournament play and prevent misunderstandings.

8. Skins Game: High Stakes on Every Hole

Learn skins game rules for exciting golf betting – pin for your next casual round!

A Skins Game is one of the most popular golf betting games and a great way to add excitement to a casual round. It’s a type of match play where each hole is worth a set value (a “skin”). To win the skin, a player must win the hole outright. If there’s a tie, the skin carries over, raising the stakes for the next hole. This is a perfect fun golf game format for friends.

What You Need for a Skins Game:

• Players: Typically 2-4 players.
• Wager: A predetermined value (cash, points, or bragging rights) for each “skin” or hole.
• Scoring Method: Track who wins each hole outright.

How to Play a Skins Game:

1. Assign a value to each hole (a “skin”). This can be a fixed amount per hole, or the value can increase throughout the round.
2. Players compete individually to win each hole.
3. To win a “skin,” a player must have the lowest score on that hole outright. If there’s a tie for the lowest score, no one wins the skin for that hole.
4. If no one wins the skin on a particular hole (a tie), the value of that skin carries over to the next hole, increasing the stakes.
5. The player who wins the next hole outright will collect the current skin plus all carried-over skins.
6. At the end of the round, players settle up based on the number of skins they’ve won.
7. Handicaps can be applied to ensure fair play among different skill levels.

Pro-Tip: To add extra excitement to a skins game, introduce “presses” or “birdie-or-better” bonuses. This creates dynamic shifts and keeps players engaged, even when facing beginner golf tournament struggles.

9. Chapman System: A Modified Alternate Shot for Pairs

Uncover the Chapman system rules for two-person teams – pin for strategic pairing!

The Chapman System is an inventive two-person golf format that is often called a modified alternate shot. It’s a great game for pairs because it combines elements of both team and individual play, reducing some of the pressure found in a traditional Foursomes match. The format is strategic and requires good communication between partners.

What You Need for the Chapman System:

• Two-Person Team (Partners): This format is specifically for pairs.
• Golf Balls: Each player needs their own ball for the initial drive.
• Scoring Method: Stroke play applies to the single ball chosen for the team after the second shot.

How to Play the Chapman System:

1. Both partners tee off on each hole.
2. Each partner then hits a second shot using their partner’s drive. (Player A hits Player B’s drive, and Player B hits Player A’s drive).
3. After these two shots, the team chooses the best of the two balls.
4. From that chosen best ball position, the partners play alternate shot until the ball is holed out. The player whose second shot was not chosen hits the third shot.
5. Record the total strokes for the team.
6. Handicaps are typically combined for the team and then applied to the total score.

Pro-Tip: The Chapman System demands excellent communication and trust between partners. Knowing your partner’s strengths and weaknesses can significantly influence which drive to select, a key element in team building golf events.

10. Bingo Bango Bongo: A Fun, Pace-of-Play-Focused Game

Add Bingo Bango Bongo scoring to your casual rounds – pin for fun!

Bingo Bango Bongo is less of a formal tournament format and more of a fun golf game format for friends. It’s a points-based game that rewards specific achievements on each hole, making it engaging for players of all skill levels. A huge benefit is that it encourages faster rounds, making it an excellent solution for solving slow play in tournaments.

What You Need for Bingo Bango Bongo:

• Players: Typically 2-4 players.
• Scoring Method: A way to track points for three distinct achievements on each hole.

How to Play Bingo Bango Bongo:

1. Points are awarded as follows on each hole:
   • Bingo: 1 point for the first player in the group whose ball lands on the green.
   • Bango: 1 point for the player whose ball is closest to the hole once all balls are on the green.
   • Bongo: 1 point for the first player to hole out.
2. The order of play is always “ready golf” – whoever is ready to hit next goes, regardless of whose turn it would be otherwise. This encourages fast play.
3. The player with the most points at the end of the round wins.
4. Handicaps can be applied by adjusting the total points at the end, or by awarding fewer points to lower-handicap players on certain holes.

Pro-Tip: Bingo Bango Bongo is an excellent format for casual rounds and for encouraging faster play. It keeps everyone engaged, especially beginners, by offering multiple ways to score points beyond just the lowest stroke count, making it a great way to address lack of engagement in golf events.

11. Wolf: The Strategic Hunting Game

Unleash the Wolf golf game strategy – pin this for your next competitive round!

The Wolf golf game is one of the most engaging and strategic golf formats for a foursome. It’s a betting game where players rotate being the “Wolf” on each hole. The Wolf has to make a strategic decision after seeing each player’s tee shot: pick a partner to play 2 vs. 2, or go it alone as the “Lone Wolf” for a higher reward. This format promotes engagement and constant tactical thinking.

What You Need for the Wolf Game:

• Four Players: The game is designed for a foursome.
• Scoring Method: A way to track points or monetary stakes based on the outcome of each hole.

How to Play the Wolf Game:

1. Determine the “Wolf” order: Typically players rotate who is the “Wolf” on each hole. The player who did not play last on the previous hole will tee off first, becoming the “Wolf.”
2. The Wolf tees off.
3. After each of the other three players tee off, the Wolf must decide whether to pick one of them as a partner for that hole, or to go “Wolf Solo.”
   • If the Wolf picks a partner: It’s a 2-on-2 match. The Wolf and partner combine their scores, competing against the combined scores of the other two players.
   • If the Wolf goes Solo (declares “Wolf”): The Wolf plays against the other three players as a team. The Wolf’s score is compared against the single best score of the other three. This decision must be made before the Wolf hits their second shot.
4. Points are awarded (or stakes paid) based on who wins the hole. Solo Wolf wins/losses typically carry higher point values.
5. Players play their own ball throughout the hole.
6. Handicaps are usually applied by giving strokes to individual players on specific holes.

Pro-Tip: The decision to go “Wolf Solo” is the most impactful. It’s a high-risk, high-reward move best attempted when you’ve hit a fantastic drive or are confident in your short game. This strategic element keeps the game highly engaging and addresses ways to keep golf tournaments interesting.

Key Takeaways

Navigating the different types of golf tournaments is simple once you understand the core mechanics of each format. Whether you prioritize teamwork, individual skill, or fast-paced fun, there is a perfect format for every occasion. This golf tournament formats summary will help you remember the most crucial points.

• Format Dictates Experience: The choice between a Scramble for social fun and Stroke Play for serious competition is fundamental. Your selection of a golf tournament format directly shapes the event’s atmosphere and goals.
• Team vs. Individual: Team formats like Scramble and Best Ball are excellent for inclusivity and are often used in charity golf tournaments. Individual formats like Stroke Play and Match Play are the ultimate tests of personal skill.
• Scoring Variations Add Spice: Alternative golf scoring systems like Stableford can make the game more enjoyable by reducing the penalty of a bad hole. Fun golf betting games like a Skins Game add a layer of excitement and risk-reward to every shot.
• Hybrid Formats Offer Balance: A Shamble or Chapman System provides a middle ground, blending the best elements of team collaboration and individual accountability, making them great golf game variations for club events.
• Pace of Play Matters: Formats like Bingo Bango Bongo and events with a Shotgun Start are designed to keep the game moving, which is crucial for managing large groups and ensuring a positive experience for everyone.

FAQs About different types of golf tournaments

What are the main differences between Stroke Play and Match Play?

The primary difference is the scoring method: Stroke Play counts the total number of shots over a round, while Match Play is a hole-by-hole competition. In Stroke Play, the lowest total score wins, making consistency key. In Match Play, you compete to win more individual holes than your opponent, so one bad hole won’t ruin your entire competition.

Which golf tournament format is best for beginners or casual groups?

The Scramble format is widely considered the best choice for beginners and casual players. Because the team always plays from the best-positioned ball, it reduces individual pressure and allows players with varying abilities to contribute and have fun. This makes it a go-to for fun golf formats for tournaments.

How does a golf handicap affect tournament play?

A golf handicap is used to level the playing field by adjusting a player’s score to reflect their potential ability. In net stroke play, the handicap is subtracted from the total score. In Match Play, strokes are given on certain holes. This system ensures that players of all skill levels can compete fairly against one another.

What is the purpose of a Shotgun Start in golf tournaments?

A Shotgun Start has all groups of players tee off simultaneously from different holes on the course. The main benefit is that all players finish their rounds at roughly the same time, which is ideal for organizing post-round meals, awards ceremonies, and other activities, especially in large charity or corporate events.

What are the rules for a Texas Scramble?

A Texas Scramble is a variation of a standard Scramble that adds a strategic requirement: the team must use a minimum number of drives from each player during the round. For a foursome, this might mean each player’s tee shot must be selected at least three or four times, ensuring everyone contributes to the team’s success off the tee.

How do you choose the right golf tournament format for a charity event?

For a charity event, the best format prioritizes fun, inclusivity, and pace of play. A Scramble is the most popular choice because it allows golfers of all skill levels to play together, fosters a social atmosphere, and keeps the round moving efficiently, all of which are crucial for a successful fundraising event.

What is the difference between a Best Ball and a Foursomes tournament?

In Best Ball (also called Four-Ball), each player on a team plays their own ball, and the lowest score on each hole counts as the team score. In Foursomes (also known as Alternate Shot), teammates hit the same ball, taking turns until the ball is holed out, which requires significant teamwork and strategy.

Can you explain Gross vs. Net scoring in golf?

Gross score is your actual number of strokes taken in a round, without any adjustments. Net score is your gross score minus your handicap allowance. Tournaments often use net scoring to allow players of different abilities to compete on a more equal footing.

What is a Skins Game, and how is it scored?

A Skins Game is a popular betting format where each hole has a set value (the “skin”). To win the skin, a player must record a lower score on that hole than anyone else in the group. If there’s a tie, the skin carries over to the next hole, increasing its value until someone wins it outright.

What are some advanced or less common golf tournament formats?

Beyond the basics, there are many unique formats like the Pinehurst System (a variation of Chapman), System 36 (a same-day handicap system), and Calcutta (an auction-based tournament). These often involve more complex rules or betting structures and are designed to provide a different kind of strategic challenge for experienced players.

Final Thoughts

Mastering the different types of golf tournaments opens up a new world of enjoyment and strategic depth in the game. You are now equipped with the knowledge to confidently step onto the first tee of a Scramble, understand the head-to-head tension of Match Play, or even organize your own engaging Shamble event. The key is to match the format to the occasion and the players involved.

By moving beyond simple Stroke Play, you can transform a standard round into a memorable experience that fosters camaraderie, encourages strategic thinking, or simply adds a layer of fun. The beauty of golf lies in its versatility, and these formats are a testament to that. Whether for competition, charity, or casual play, the right format ensures that every player leaves the course with a positive story to tell.

What’s your favorite golf tournament format to play, and why? Share your experiences in the comments below

Last update on 2026-02-20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API