Four-ball vs foursomes vs alternate shot
These Ryder Cup formats trip people up — especially because 'foursomes' is a format, not just a group of four players. Here's exactly what four-ball, foursomes, and alternate shot mean, and how each one is scored.
Four-ball (better ball)
Two-player teams; every golfer plays their own ballfor the whole hole. Each team's score on a hole is the betterof its two players. Four balls are in play at once. It's the most common team betting format and a Ryder Cup staple.
Foursomes (alternate shot)
Two-player teams; each team plays one ball, alternating shots. One partner tees off on the odd-numbered holes, the other on the evens, and they switch every shot in between until the ball is holed. Only two balls are in play, so it's quick — and nerve-wracking, since you play your partner's misses.
Alternate shot variations
- Greensomes: both partners tee off, you pick the better drive, then alternate shots from there.
- Pinehurst / chapman:both tee off, both play each other's drive, you pick the better second shot, then alternate.
Quick reference
- Four-ball = own ball, best score counts (4 balls in play).
- Foursomes = one ball, alternate shots (2 balls in play).
- Scramble = everyone hits, play the best shot, repeat — see scramble vs best ball.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between four-ball and foursomes?
In four-ball, all four players play their own ball the whole hole, and each two-player team counts its better score — so four balls are in play. In foursomes, each two-player team plays a single ball, alternating shots — so only two balls are in play. Four-ball is 'better ball'; foursomes is 'alternate shot'.
Is foursomes the same as a foursome?
No — and that's the confusion. 'A foursome' casually means any group of four golfers. 'Foursomes' (the format) is two-player teams each playing one ball in alternate shot. You can play four-ball, a scramble, or stroke play in a group of four; foursomes specifically means alternate shot.
What is alternate shot in golf?
Alternate shot is foursomes: teammates take turns hitting the same ball. One player tees off on odd holes, the other on even holes, and from there they alternate every shot — including holing out. It's fast and uniquely pressure-filled because your partner has to play your miss.
Is four-ball the same as best ball?
Effectively yes in common use — both mean each player plays their own ball and the team takes the best score. 'Four-ball' specifically describes 2v2; 'best ball' is the looser umbrella term and can also describe one player against the best of two or three opponents.
Score any of these formats live
mashie tracks match play, four-ball, Nassau, skins, and side bets as you play — no scorecard math, settled at the 18th.