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Notes about the game from Patty Ellis, Past Rules Chair
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The Art of the “Gimme” Putt

A “gimme” (which is formally referred to as a conceded putt) occurs in Match Play when one player “gives” her competitor her next putt deeming that putt holed without the competitor actually having to putt. It’s both a tool of strategy and a gracious thing to do. But when, how, why and even to whom to give a gimme putt is an art.

Firstly, a “gimme” putt can only be given in match play where the gimme is given from a player to her competitor player. If I’m not in a match with someone, it’s not my putt to give. And secondly, one cannot refuse a gimme. For a refresher on Match Play (the type of golf competition most casual golfers play) see the Basic Competitions article under the Golf Tips from Past Chair Patty Ellis within the Rules and Handicap Section of our website.

So, when should you be generous, when should you not? Let me set up a scenario and discuss the options:
Hilary Hartung and I are playing a match. I’m lying four (I’ve made four shots) and have a two foot putt left for a five. Hilary lies three and has a two foot putt left for a four. (stay with me here – it’ll make sense at the end!). If we both make our putts, Hilary will win the hole (a four beats a five). In this example, it’s an option for either one of us to give the other her putt.

First, let’s look at it from my perspective. If I concede Hilary’s putt, she’ll win the hole. Here are the things I’d consider: Is this a friendly game or a serious competition? I’d be much more apt to give her the putt (and concede the hole to her) if it’s not a serious competition. What is the probability that she’ll miss her two foot putt? If the chances are she’ll make the putt, I might as well be gracious and give it to her. Where does the competition stand? If it’s the 18th hole with the entire match riding on my decision, maybe I’d be reluctant to give it to her. Of course, two of the most important things to be considered are my own personality, and the relationship I have with my competitor. If she was mean to me in Middle School, she’ll have to make the putt!

The things that Hilary would consider are almost identical to my perspective, but she has the added benefit of knowing that, barring a catastrophe, she’ll at least halve the hole. Most people see this as an opportunity to be gracious and give their competitor the putt.

Lastly, in a two-player team match, one should consider the advantage that one competitor might gain from seeing her partner’s putt. It might be the best strategy to give a player who’s lying 6 her putt so that her partner (who might be lying 4) won’t get the advantage of seeing the break before she putts.