Golf
Scratch Golfer: Definition, Handicap, and Skill Level
Scratch golfers are golfers who have handicaps of zero. In other words, they are expected to achieve par on a standard course. They have to earn scratch golfer status over a long period.
Flogas Irish Scratch Series//Getty Images
What is the Definition of a Scratch Golfer?
In golf, a "scratch golfer" is a player with a handicap index of zero. This means that a scratch golfer is expected to play to par on a standard course. In simple terms, they have the skill level to complete an 18-hole course without needing handicap strokes to compete on an even playing field with professionals.
To reach this level, a scratch golfer must demonstrate consistency, accuracy, and a deep understanding of course management. They possess control over all aspects of their game: driving, approach shots, putting, and mental resilience. The term "scratch" comes from the idea of starting from zero, which implies that these golfers begin each round without any additional strokes to assist them.
A scratch golfer plays courses under challenging conditions without needing extra strokes to equalise their score. The USGA (United States Golf Association) defines a scratch golfer as a player who can achieve a score of par or better on a course with a 72 par rating. In the UK, golf courses follow a similar system, though slope ratings may vary from course to course, creating minor adjustments.
To become a scratch golfer, a player must demonstrate a handicap index of zero or better over several rounds. Consistency is key, as a scratch golfer needs to be able to maintain this standard rather than achieving it sporadically.
Although amateurs use handicaps, professional golfers at the highest level do not maintain official handicaps when playing on the PGA Tour.
What is Better Than a Scratch Golfer?
Scratch golfers are among the best amateurs in the game, but there are levels even beyond this. Golfers who are better than scratch players are often referred to as “plus-handicap” golfers. These players have handicaps in the negative numbers, meaning their index is better than zero. This suggests that they consistently shoot scores below par on challenging courses.
Plus-handicap golfers are extremely rare. Most players at this level are either professional golfers or high-level amateurs who compete in elite tournaments. The journey to becoming a plus-handicap golfer requires a near-perfect game, combining power, accuracy, and control over the mental side of golf.
For example, a golfer with a +2 handicap index is expected to play two strokes better than par over 18 holes. This means that on a par-72 course, they should finish around 70. In competitive golf, having a plus handicap signifies a readiness for professional or semi-professional competition.
Top-tier amateurs and collegiate golfers often hold plus handicaps before turning professional. It’s common for players aspiring to play on the PGA Tour to hold handicaps between +4 and +6. These players have honed their skills to an elite standard, mastering their physical and mental game to maintain their level across various courses and conditions.
When Did Tiger Woods Become a Scratch Golfer
It has been widely reported that by the age of 13, Tiger Woods got his handicap down to scratch. This is particularly remarkable given that most golfers take 90-108 shots to finish a round of golf and never get anywhere close to becoming scratch golfers. The USGA claims the average handicap is 14.2 for men and 28.7 for women. For Woods to have done so at such a young age was a measure of his extraordinary talent.
Tiger Woods//Getty Images
What Percentage of Golfers Become Scratch Golfers?
Estimates suggest that fewer than 1% of golfers achieve scratch status, with some sources narrowing this figure down to around 0.5%. Determining the exact percentage is challenging, as there is no comprehensive record of golfers who consistently play to a scratch level. This estimate varies due to several factors, including the accessibility of the game, regional differences in skill levels, and the number of golfers who formally track their handicaps.
Many golfers worldwide do not actively maintain an official handicap, which makes precise data difficult to obtain. However, among those who do, reaching a scratch handicap is exceptionally rare. The scratch level requires not only a strong technical skillset but also the ability to consistently perform under pressure across various courses. As a result, most golfers, even dedicated ones, find reaching scratch status a formidable achievement that few accomplish.
Although it is possible to finish a round of golf in under 60 shots, the consistency needed to maintain scratch status is a separate skill.
Leonard Solms is a freelance journalist who has been covering local and international sport from South Africa since 2015. Best known for his work for ESPN, he has also written for Al Jazeera, The Continent, New Frame, Planet Rugby and GiveMeSport among several other publications.