What is the ruling when a player’s dropped ball rolls back onto a golf cart path?

When a player drops a ball and it rolls back onto a golf cart path, the correct ruling requires the player to find a spot where the ball can rest, as the cart path is considered an obstruction. According to the Rules of Golf, if a ball is dropped using the correct procedure and rolls back onto the path, it is not acceptable to play from the path itself. Instead, the player needs to take additional action to ensure that the ball lies in a position where it can be played fairly.

The player must drop the ball again in a suitable location that is not in a condition that interferes with play, taking care to adhere to the area of relief designated under the rules. Finding a spot where the ball can come to rest ensures that the player is not unduly hampered by the conditions of the course, such as the cart path, which may create an unfair playing situation.

This ruling emphasizes the importance of providing a fair and playable environment, ensuring that players are able to make effective strokes without interference from maintainable course features.