WATCH: What do I do if I hit the ball out of bounds or lose the ball? The rules of golf were explained

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It’s always a difficult moment.

He hit a bad shot and it hurtled out of bounds or bounced in a very bad looking spot.

The chance that you will see the ball again is slim.

What do you do next?

This USGA video explains the thorny condition in simple terms.

“If you hit your ball out of bounds or miss it,” explained the narrator, “the rules require you to play another ball where you last played under the penalty of a stroke and distance.”

“Stroke and distance is the only option for a ball that is out of bounds or loose, unless the local law of your choice provides otherwise.

“If you have any doubts about whether your ball is lost or out of bounds, consider playing a temporary ball from your starting position,” explains the video.

“Because looking at the ball must be returned to the old place, it can interfere with the way of playing.

“If your previous stroke was made from the tee then just put it together again.

“If you last played on a fairway, rough, bunker or putting green, drop the ball about one club length from where you made your last stroke making sure you don’t get too close to the hole.

“If you happen to find that your first ball goes in within three minutes of searching, great.

“But if you don’t get your ball or it goes out of bounds, just play for a while.

“But remember, you are not allowed to play for a while when the only place where your real ball can be lost is in the penalty area.

“If this happens you must use one of the options below the penalty.”

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