Golf offers many team formats that test strategy, communication, and partnership. Two of the most common—and most often confused—are Foursomes and Greensomes. Both are two-player team games that use a single ball and alternate shots, yet they differ in a crucial way that changes the entire feel of the round.
This guide covers the difference between Foursomes and Greensomes, how each format works, handicap rules, key rules (including out of bounds), and when to choose one over the other. Whether you’re organizing a club competition, preparing for a social day, or simply curious about golf league formats, you’ll leave with clear answers.
What Is Foursomes Golf?
Foursomes (also called alternate shot) is a classic pairs format. Two partners share one ball for the entire hole and take turns hitting it. One player tees off on the odd-numbered holes; the other tees off on the even-numbered holes. After the tee shot, the partners continue alternating every stroke until the ball is holed.
Only one ball is in play per team. This keeps the pace relatively quick and places a premium on consistency and teamwork. Foursomes appears regularly in the Ryder Cup and Presidents Cup and remains a staple of club and inter-club matches.
Because every shot matters and there is no “safety net” on the tee, Foursomes is widely regarded as one of the more demanding team formats.
What Is the Greensomes Golf Format?
Greensomes (sometimes called Scotch Foursomes, Canadian Foursomes, or Foursomes with select drive) is a more forgiving variation of Foursomes. Both players tee off on every hole. The team then chooses the better of the two drives. The player whose drive was not selected plays the second shot, and the partners alternate from that point until the ball is holed.
The key advantage is simple: both players contribute a drive every hole, so a single poor tee shot rarely ruins the hole. This makes Greensomes popular for mixed-ability groups, social events, and club competitions where enjoyment and participation matter as much as pure competition.
Greensomes vs Foursomes | Key Differences at a Glance
| Feature | Foursomes | Greensomes |
|---|---|---|
| Tee shots | One player per hole (odd/even) | Both players tee off every hole |
| Drive selection | No choice | Choose the better drive |
| Second shot | Partner of the tee-shot player | Player whose drive was not chosen |
| Rest of the hole | Alternate shots | Alternate shots |
| Difficulty | Higher (no safety net) | Lower (two chances off the tee) |
| Typical feel | Demanding, pure teamwork | More social and forgiving |
| WHS Handicap Allowance | 50% of combined Course Handicaps | 60% of lower + 40% of higher |
The single biggest difference is the tee shot. In Foursomes, you are locked into whoever is scheduled to drive. In Greensomes, you always get two looks and can select the better position.
How Does Foursomes Work in Golf?
- Before the round, decide who tees off on odd holes and who tees off on even holes. This order is fixed for the day.
- The designated player hits the tee shot.
- Partners alternate every subsequent stroke until the ball is holed.
- Penalty strokes do not change the order of play. The next scheduled partner still hits the following stroke.
- Record one score per hole for the team.
Out-of-bounds and lost-ball notes: Standard Rules of Golf apply (stroke-and-distance under Rule 18). If a ball goes out of bounds or is lost, the side takes the penalty, and the correct partner in the rotation plays the next stroke. Playing a provisional ball must also follow the correct order. Hitting out of turn brings a general penalty and usually requires the correct player to replay the stroke.
How Does Greensomes Work?
- Both partners hit a tee shot on every hole.
- The team walks forward and selects the better-positioned drive (considering lie, angle, and distance, not just length).
- The player whose drive was not chosen plays the second shot from the selected ball’s position. The unused ball is picked up.
- Partners then alternate shots until the ball is holed.
- Record one team score for the hole.
This structure ensures both players stay involved. A strong driver can still influence every hole, while the second-shot and short-game specialists get their opportunities later.
Foursomes and Greensomes Golf Handicap Allowances
Under the World Handicap System (WHS), recommended allowances differ:
- Foursomes: Team Playing Handicap = 50% of the two partners’ combined Course Handicaps (rounded to the nearest whole number).
- Greensomes: Team Playing Handicap = 60% of the lower Course Handicap + 40% of the higher Course Handicap (then rounded).
These figures are then used for stroke play (subtract from the team’s gross score) or match play (compare the two teams’ allowances and give the difference as strokes). Always check the Terms of the Competition, as committees can adjust the recommendations.
For a deeper look at how Course Handicap becomes Playing Handicap across formats, see the guide on Course Handicap vs Playing Handicap. Related reading on different types of golf tournament formats and golf league formats will also help when planning events.
Are Greensomes the Same as Foursomes?
No. They share the alternate-shot structure after the tee shot, but the tee-shot rules create two distinct experiences. Foursomes is stricter and more traditional. Greensomes adds a scramble-style element at the start of each hole and is generally considered more enjoyable for mixed or recreational groups.
Do Both Players Tee Off in Greensomes?
Yes. That is the defining feature of the format. Both players hit a drive on every hole, the better one is selected, and play then continues with alternate shots.
Which Format Should You Choose?
- Choose Foursomes when you want a pure test of teamwork, faster play, or a format that mirrors professional team events. It suits stronger or more experienced pairs who thrive under pressure.
- Choose Greensomes for club days, mixed pairs, social competitions, or any group where both players want meaningful involvement from the tee. It reduces frustration and keeps scores more competitive across different skill levels.
Many clubs run both formats during a season. Some events even mix them (for example, nine holes of each).
Final Thoughts
The difference between Foursomes and Greensomes comes down to one decision on the tee: one ball or two. That single change affects strategy, pressure, pace, and enjoyment. Understanding the rules, handicaps, and practical flow of each format helps you pick the right game for the day and play it well.
Whether you’re preparing for a competitive match or organizing a fun day out, knowing exactly how Foursomes and Greensomes work will make the round smoother and more enjoyable for everyone involved. Grab a partner, decide which format suits your group, and enjoy the shared challenge of team golf.
