An informal 'do-over' shot taken without penalty, not permitted under the official Rules of Golf but widely accepted in casual recreational play.
The Origin of the Term
The most popular origin story attributes the term to David Mulligan, a Canadian golfer who allegedly retook a shot in the 1920s after a bumpy car ride to the club left him with shaky hands. Whether the story is true or apocryphal, the term became part of golf culture and has been in common use since the mid-20th century. Several other claimed originators exist, but the David Mulligan story remains the most widely cited.
When Is a Mulligan Typically Taken?
In casual rounds between friends, mulligans are most often taken on the first tee — the hole where pre-round nerves are highest. Some groups have 'mulligan rules' allowing one or two per round by agreement before the round starts. Charity golf events frequently sell mulligans as a fundraising tool, allowing players to purchase additional do-overs. In all these contexts, the mulligan is pre-agreed and transparent.
Mulligans Are Not Legal Under Official Rules
Under the USGA and R&A Rules of Golf, there is no provision for a mulligan. Taking a stroke and not counting it violates Rule 3.3c (failure to count all strokes). If you're playing in any official competition — stroke play tournament, club championship, or any event where scores are submitted for handicap purposes — mulligans are not permitted. Accepting them could result in disqualification.
Etiquette Around Mulligans in Casual Play
Even in casual rounds, mulligan etiquette matters. Only take a mulligan if your playing partners offer one or have pre-agreed to them. Never slow down the round by insisting on a mulligan when the group is pressed for time. Take mulligans promptly — don't deliberate for two minutes on whether to use one. And if you're the best player in the group, offering mulligans to higher-handicap partners is a kind gesture that makes the game more enjoyable for everyone.
Key Takeaways
- A mulligan is an informal do-over shot not permitted under official rules
- Only take mulligans by pre-agreement before the round begins
- Never take mulligans in any round being submitted for handicap purposes
- Etiquette: offer mulligans to others before taking them yourself
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