World Handicap System

World Handicap System (WHS)

The idea for a unified handicap system was conceived by the USGA and The R&A and developed following an extensive review of systems administered by six existing handicapping authorities – Golf Australia, the Council of National Golf Unions (CONGU) in Great Britain and Ireland, the European Golf Association (EGA), the South African Golf Association (SAGA), the Argentine Golf Association (AAG) and the United States Golf Association (USGA).

Feedback has helped to shape the WHS, which has been developed by the USGA and The R&A with support from each handicapping authority as well as the Japan Golf Association and Golf Canada.

The World Handicap System launched its first revision in Canada January 17th, 2024

As part of an ongoing review of Rules and Handicapping™ and Course Rating System™ with a continued emphasis on accuracy, consistency and equity. The revisions will go into effect January 17, 2024.

Many countries have seen significant increases in the number of scores being submitted for handicapping purposes since the WHS was introduced, reflecting golf’s broadening appeal. More than 100 million scores have been posted each year, unifying millions of golfers through a standard measure of playing ability. The 2024 update leverages the performance data gathered from around the world, in addition to feedback received from many of the 125 countries now using the system.

Significant updates to the WHS include:

Golf Canada is excited about the above changes, and is also proud to continue to offer the following features of the World Handicap System: