Alternateshot

Alternateshot, commonly known as foursomes in golf, is a team format in which two players form a side and share a single golf ball for an entire hole. The players take turns hitting shots, with the ball alternating between partners from tee to hole. The team’s score on each hole equals the total number of strokes taken to complete that hole with the shared ball. The order of play is decided by the team at the start of the hole or round, and the same ball remains in play until the hole is completed.

Play in foursomes emphasizes teamwork and strategy. Because only one ball is used, players must coordinate their tee shots, lay-up options, and approach shots. A partner who is accurate with short irons may complement a longer hitter, or a left-handed and right-handed pairing can be advantageous in certain layouts. Consistency and compatibility are often more important than sheer power.

Foursomes is a standard format in professional team events, most notably as one of the sessions in the Ryder Cup and Presidents Cup. It is also commonly played in club events and amateur tournaments and can be used in either match play or stroke play formats.

Related formats include fourball (better-ball), where each player plays their own ball and the better score on each hole counts, and standard singles matches where each team member competes individually.