Matchplay
Matchplay is the English term for match play.
The term has also established itself firmly in German usage. In club notices, tournament lists and television broadcasts you read mostly Matchplay, more rarely Lochspiel. Meant is the same: two parties play hole for hole against each other instead of adding strokes over the whole round. Known is the format above all through the Ryder Cup and the Solheim Cup. There European and American teams compete in various matchplay variants. Also the Presidents Cup and many amateur championships use this system.
Within matchplay there are several varieties. In the single one plays against one. In the foursome two partners hit the same ball alternately. In the fourball everyone plays their own ball, the better result of the pair counts for the hole. An example from the fourball: your partner lies in the bunker, you on the green. He can attack freely, because your safe par secures the hole. This division of labour makes team formats tactically appealing.
Results are noted differently than in stroke play. “2 & 1” means two holes lead with one remaining hole. “1 up” means victory at the 18th hole. If it stands equal afterwards, at knockout tournaments one continues in the play-off. Net matchplay works over handicap strokes that are distributed onto single holes. The difference between Gross and net thereby remains important. Further answers to tournament formats you find in the FAQ.
FAQ
Where does matchplay meet me in everyday club life?
Above all at club championships with a knockout phase, at team competitions and in most tournament lists as “Lochspiel”. Also net matchplay is usual: the handicap strokes from your handicap are distributed onto single holes, so that you have real chances even against stronger players. Look into the notice board of your club — there stands almost always Matchplay instead of Lochspiel.
What does the result “2 & 1” on the scoreboard mean?
It means: two holes lead with only one remaining hole — the match is decided early. “1 up” on the contrary means victory only at the 18th hole. This notation you read at all matchplay tournaments, from the club competition to the Ryder Cup.
How do foursome and fourball differ in matchplay?
In the foursome two partners hit the same ball alternately, in the fourball everyone plays their own ball and the better result of the pair counts. In the fourball your partner can therefore attack freely when you secure the hole with a safe par. This division of labour makes the team formats tactically especially appealing.