What Is the Diameter of a Golf Hole?

By Kim Kleinle

Golfers might wish they had a bigger target at the end of a particularly difficult hole, but the size of the cup is set by the Rules of Golf.

History

In the early days of golf, the hole sizes were unpredictable. The standard size of the cup evolved purely by chance. A pipe used to reinforce a crumbling hole at St. Andrews was 4 1/4 inches.

Size

The hole must be 4 1/4 inches in diameter and at least 4 inches deep, according to the United States Golf Association's Rules of Golf.

Features

If the golf course uses a liner inside the hole, that liner must be at least 1 inch below the putting surface and its outer diameter must not exceed 4 1/4 inches.

Considerations

Because greens receive intensive foot traffic, course maintenance workers move the holes at least twice a week, but busy courses will change the holes daily. Moving the holes allows the grass time to recover from wear.

Fun Fact

Some courses play an 8-inch cup tournament. The maintenance staff cuts large 8-inch holes in difficult locations on the green, often on a slope or mound.

Resources

United States Golf Association

About The Author

Kim Kleinle is a PGA/LPGA professional and a member of a select group certified in instruction by the Professional Golfers' Association. She began writing in 1980 after earning her degree. Her work has appeared online, in "Northeast Golfer" and in newspapers, including the "Scranton Times." Kleinle holds a Bachelor of Arts in journalism from Point Park University, Pittsburgh.

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