If you’re looking to spice up your next round, the Nassau is one of the most popular and beginner-friendly side games in golf. It’s simple, strategic, and gives every golfer something to play for—regardless of how they swing.
What Is Nassau?
Nassau is essentially three separate bets played within one 18-hole round:
- Front Nine (holes 1–9)
- Back Nine (holes 10–18)
- Overall 18-Hole Score
Each segment is treated as its own match, and typically, the wager is the same for each, hence the nickname “2-2-2” or “5-5-5” Nassau ($2, $2, $2).
The format originated at Nassau Country Club on Long Island around 1900, designed to keep competitions closer and more engaging, especially when one nine went badly, the other could still turn things around.
Why It Works for Beginners
Nassau strikes a perfect balance between fun and structure. Even with a poor front nine, you’re not out of the game as there are still two segments you can win. The format rewards incremental wins and keeps rounds interesting from start to finish. Handicaps can also be easily applied so mixed-ability groups can compete fairly, which makes Nassau accessible and engaging for everyone.
How to Play Nassau
- Agree on the Wager
Decide upfront how much each portion is worth (i.e., front, back, and overall). Common bets are $2, $5, or $10. - Decide Format & Handicaps
Nassau works in match play, stroke play, or net scoring when handicaps are involved. - Play Each Nine Separately
Track hole-by-hole results. The player who wins more holes on the front nine wins that bet. Repeat for the back nine and overall total. - Keep Score Separately
Separate lines on your scorecard or notations. Just make sure you track the three segments clearly.
The Nassau Press: A Game-Changing Twist
A press is a secondary bet that a player can offer when they’re two points (holes) down in any of the three matches. It’s like doubling down, giving a chance to recoup or even swing the outcome mid-round.
Here’s how it works:
- The new press runs concurrently with the original wager.
- It only applies to the remaining number of holes in that segment.
- Example: If you’re 2-down on the front nine with three holes to go, you can press. If accepted, you’re now playing two wagers over the final three holes, both counting independently.
Some groups also play auto-press rules when a player is two down, which can escalate into multiple bets and make rallies possible.
Setting House Rules
To avoid confusion and runaway stakes, establish some hosue rules before teeing off. Examples include:
- Defining when pressing is allowed (e.g., only once per nine).
- Clarifying whether presses require mutual agreement or are automatic.
- Deciding betting increments and whether junk bets (e.g., birdie bonuses) are allowed. For example, add “junk” bets like closest to the pin, sandies, or birdies for fun side wagers.
How Nassau Plays Out
Let’s say you’re playing a $5 Nassau:
- On the front nine, Player A wins, so they pocket $5.
- Back nine goes to Player B, so that bet is reversed.
- For the overall 18, they tally it up based on total holes won. Let’s say Player A wins again, netting an additional $5. Result: A wins $5 overall, B wins $5 for back nine. This provides a balanced, but still competitive and fun game.
If a press was activated mid-game by a trailing player and results flipped, that creates extra action (and possibly extra winnings).
Final Thoughts
The beauty of Nassau is its balance of structure and flexibility. It keeps players engaged because even a bad start doesn’t define the round. Pressure, strategy, and opportunity all coexist within the format. Best of all, it works well across skill levels and can be adjusted to suit any group dynamic.
So next time you step up to the first tee with friends, consider calling “Let’s do a $5 Nassau.” It’ll give the round fresh energy, extra competition, and maybe some unforgettable finishes.