Nassau
The classic side-bet structure. The same 18-hole match-play round produces three independent outcomes — one for the front nine, one for the back nine, and one for all 18 — each settled separately at the 19th hole.
- Players
- Two players
- Net scoring
- Supported
How it works
The mechanics, hole by hole.
- 1A single 18-hole match-play round is settled THREE times: front 9, back 9, and overall 18.
- 2Each of the three is its own independent match, with its own status (A/S, X Up, etc.).
- 3Front and back nines reset at the turn — losing the front doesn't carry into the back.
- 4Traditionally bet at equal stakes (e.g., $5 / $5 / $5); some groups add 'presses' that double down on a falling-behind side.
When to play it
Best fit.
The default cash game for buddies' rounds — gives losers two chances to recover (back nine, total) instead of being out of it at the turn. Best with players of similar handicap or with net scoring. Add 'auto-presses' for max chaos.
Worked example
3 holes, with the math shown.
| Bet | Mike holes won | Tom holes won | Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| Front 9 | 5 | 3 | Mike 2 Up |
| Back 9 | 3 | 4 | Tom 1 Up |
| Total 18 | 8 | 7 | Mike 1 Up |
Same round, three independent matches. Mike wins the front and total bets; Tom wins the back. At $5 / $5 / $5, Mike comes out +$5 net.
Other head-to-head (1 vs 1) formats
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