Levelling the Fairways: Nine tips for understanding the World Handicap System

Launched in 2020, the World Handicap System (WHS) has been a significant change for golfers around the world.

Developed by The R&A and USGA, the WHS merges six previous handicap systems to provide golfers with a consistent measure of playing ability wherever they are in the world. Under one, unified system, your handicap is portable around the globe and consistent wherever you play; whether it’s your local course or a sun-drenched round abroad.

Supposedly a simpler system (though I think that’s somewhat debatable), a major objective of the WHS is to make golf more accessible and enjoyable for every golfer. Yet, with all the changes, it can still feel a bit overwhelming, especially if you’re new to the game.

So, whether you’re still trying to get your head around the World Handicap System or are just starting in the sport, here’s a simplified guide to help you feel empowered and play your best golf.

1. Understanding your Handicap Index

Your Handicap Index is based on the best eight out of your last 20 scores – this gives an accurate measure of your average golfing ability. Your Handicap Index is then adjusted for the course’s difficulty and the tees you play from to give you a Course Handicap.

2. Course handicap explained

Your Course Handicap considers the Bogey Rating, Course Rating, and Slope Rating to determine the number of strokes you’ll receive for a specific course. The formula is:

Course Handicap (Rounded) = Handicap Index × (Slope Rating ÷ 113) + (Course Rating - Par).

3. Breaking down ratings

To ensure a fairer playing field, courses are rated by difficulty based on the Bogey Rating, Slope Rating and Course Rating. These figures determine your Course Handicap.

• Bogey Rating: The difficulty for a bogey golfer (a player with a Course Handicap around 20 for men and 24 for women).
• Slope Rating: Adjusts your handicap to the course.
• Course Rating: The expected score for a scratch golfer.

4. An inclusive handicap limit

With a maximum Handicap Index of 54.0, the WHS makes it easier for more people to play and maintain a handicap, helping to break down barriers to participation.

5. Maximum score per hole

For handicap purposes, the highest score you can have on a hole under the WHS is a Net Double Bogey. It’s calculated as: Par + 2 + any strokes you receive.

So, let’s say your handicap is 36. You’re playing a par four, and you get two shots on that hole. A Net Double Bogey on that hole for you would be 8, which the maximum number of shots that will count for your handicap.

This protects your Handicap Index from poor holes and keeps the game moving.

6. Daily handicap revisions

Handicaps are updated daily. If you submit a score today, your Handicap Index adjusts by tomorrow. Regularly posting your scores keeps your Handicap Index accurate.

7. Weather adjustments

The Playing Conditions Calculation (PCC) adjusts scores based on unusual weather or course conditions. If everyone’s scores are higher or lower than expected, the WHS makes adjustments to keep things fair.

8. Submitting your scores

You can now submit scores from casual or competitive rounds, in formats like match play or stroke play, and over 9 or 18 holes. Just make sure you submit scores on the day you play.

9. Open to all golfers

Historically, getting a handicap required club membership. But now, non-club members can also get an official Handicap Index. In England, for example, iGolf offers a digital subscription for non-club golfers, making the WHS accessible to all.

Hopefully, these essentials of the WHS help you play more confidently and get more enjoyment from your game. Let us know if you have any more tips! Email me at [email protected].