If a player's ball at rest begins moving after the player has begun the stroke or the backswing for a stroke and the player goes on to make the stroke:

• The ball must not be replaced, no matter what caused it to move.
• Instead, the player must play the ball from where it comes to rest after the stroke.
• If the player caused the ball to move, See Rule 9.4b to find out if there is a penalty.

Penalty for Playing Ball from a Wrong Place in Breach of Rule 9.1: General Penalty under 14.7a.

---

Click to view full USGA Explanation