Shane Lowry discusses penalty for rotating golf ball without marking
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 10, 2026, 3:13 PM
Last updated Jun 10, 2026
At the 2026 U.S. Open, Shane Lowry became involved in a debate over Rule 9.4b after rotating his ball on the green without marking it first. The Rules of Golf specify that touching an unmarked ball intentionally incurs a penalty stroke, regardless of whether the ball was lifted. This incident highlights common misunderstandings regarding the rules, particularly among amateur golfers, about when a ball can be touched. Golfers are advised to mark their balls appropriately to avoid penalties.
- •Shane Lowry rotated his ball on the putting green without marking it first.
- •Rule 9.4b states touching an unmarked ball results in a penalty stroke.
- •An exception to the penalty applies if the ball is accidentally moved while searching.
- •Golfers are encouraged to properly mark their balls before lifting or touching.
- 3:13 PMYahoo Sports — Rules of Golf Review: He rotated his golf ball without marking it. He says it's OK because he didn't lift it. True?
"The Rules of Golf are specific on when you can and can't touch your ball on the course, even if you're not lifting it
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