What are Mulligans in Golf? A Guide

Wondering when to take a mulligan? Or what the heck a mulligan even is? Read on to find out everything you need to know about this common golf term.

The Basics of Mulligans

In golf, a mulligan is simply a do-over of a shot. Sometimes you can “take a mulligan,” or take the same shot again, if something goes wrong such as you get distracted mid-swing, or you just blew it and want to try again (hey, it happens to all of us).

When are Mulligans Allowed in Golf?

Different golfers will have different rules about how many mulligans are appropriate to take per round of golf. Some people will allow only one mulligan on the first hole, while others may be fine with one mulligan per hole, or a set number per round. Talk to your golf group before playing and make sure everybody is on the same page when it comes to taking mulligans. Otherwise, you might have some heated words a few holes in!

Mulligans aren’t allowed in competitive golf but are generally accepted in recreational golf. Here are some examples of when it’s usually reasonable to take a mulligan in a friendly round of golf with your buddies:

• You want a redo on the first shot on the first hole
• You tried to tap the ball but missed
• You’re on an unfamiliar golf course, and you accidentally hit your ball toward the wrong target
• You’re taking your first putt on the green
• A sudden noise or other unexpected occurrence distracted you mid-swing
• Your foot slipped out from under you mid-swing

A good general rule to follow with mulligans is not to take so many that you noticeably slow down the pace of play and make everyone else wait around for you. Remember, if you’re playing a game that allows mulligans, it’s likely a casual round of golf that’s just for fun, so just have fun and don’t worry too much about your final score.

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