What is the consequence of making a stroke at a wrong ball?

When a player makes a stroke at a wrong ball, it incurs a one-stroke penalty according to the Rules of Golf. This is done to ensure that players maintain proper course etiquette and respect for the game’s integrity. The rule stipulates that if a player mistakenly hits a ball that is not their own, they must add one stroke to their score before continuing play.

This penalty serves to encourage players to be attentive to their own ball and the situation on the course. It is important to verify the identification of the ball before making a stroke, as doing otherwise can lead to further complications in the game. Keeping track of your ball and ensuring it’s properly identified not only enhances individual game integrity, but also promotes fair play among competitors on the course.

In this context, a general penalty or disqualification does not apply specifically for hitting a wrong ball. The focus is on the one-stroke penalty, which balances the mistake without excessively punishing the player.