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World Handicap System

World Handicap System

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world handicap system survey

Are golfers regularly submitting big winning scores into the World Handicap System?

A golfer putts out surrounded, in the foreground, by various data streams | Source: Adobe Stock World Handicap System data

World Handicap System data reveals how often golfers play, score and get exceptional rounds

A golfer fills in a scorecard | Source: Adobe Stock 18-handicap limit

Should there be an 18-handicap limit for club competitions?

foursomes Golfers at a green | Source: Adobe Stock

Is WHS ‘ill-suited’ to our golf culture – or is it time to ‘stop whingeing’ about handicapping?

Mark Darbon, CEO of The R&A speaks to the media during a press conference prior to The 154th Open Championship at Royal Birkdale on July 15, 2026 in Southport, England. (Photo by Oisin Keniry/R&A/R&A via Getty Images)

R&A backs the World Handicap System as criticisms continue

Blank golf cards on the tournament table | Source: Adobe Stock World Handicap System

Should competition scores be the only ones that count for handicap?

Three golfers on the tee | Source: Adobe Stock

WHS allows you to play from different tees in competitions – so why do some golf clubs still ignore this?

Group of elderly men , businesspeople and senior enjoy outdoor sport golfing together at country club . Healthy men golfer holding golf stick on fairway with talking together at summer sunset. High quality photo | Source: Adobe Stock World Handicap System

Does the World Handicap System need to be the same across Great Britain & Ireland?

Crawford McGhie playing a shot | Source: Crawford McGhie general play

‘I don’t think I’d have a handicap without General Play’ – is the controversial WHS format misunderstood?

Golfers signing scorecards | Source: Getty Images Handicap allowances scorecard

Ireland, Scotland and Wales adopt WHS allowance changes – as England go it alone

Golfers walking together on the course | Adobe Stock

Are handicap allowances ruining singles match play?

A flooded bunker during the Lombard Challenge Regional Qualifier at Cumberwell Park | Source: Getty Images

Can a round still count for handicap if bunkers are flooded?