As of January 2024, your 9-hole scores count towards your Handicap Index® right away!
Prior to January 2024, one 9-hole score must be combined with another to create an 18-hole Score Differential™ before it could be counted for handicap purposes.
Now, when a player posts a 9-hole score, the WHS will automatically calculate an 18-hole Score Differential for the round, based on the player’s 9-hole Score Differential and expected Score Differential based on their current Handicap Index®, allowing the 9-hole round to be considered in the player’s Handicap Index calculation right away.
As part of this change, golfers are required to play all 9 holes with a valid 9-hole Course Rating™ and Slope Rating™ instead of the previous minimum of 7 holes.
When posting a 9-hole score, be sure to switch the setting from 18-hole score (the default) to “9-hole score.” Verify which 9 holes you played (Course, tees, front or back).