Golf rules clarified on relief from tree roots near ground under repair

The Rules of Golf detail the relief process when a ball lies next to a tree root that is outside marked ground under repair (GUR). If a ball touches GUR, relief can be taken, but if the root is outside the area, players must decide between playing the shot as it lies or declaring the lie unplayable with a penalty. Understanding how tree roots interact with GUR is vital for players, especially to avoid injury or damage to equipment, as demonstrated by past incidents like Tiger Woods at the 2015 Masters. Golfers seeking relief must follow proper procedures to avoid confusion during play.

• 1:24 PMYahoo Sports — Rules of Golf Review: A tree is in ground under repair, but my ball is next to a root outside the marked area. Do I get relief?