What Is a Nassau in Golf?
Nassau: The most common betting format — three bets in one: front nine, back nine, and overall.
Nassau — full definition
The most common betting format in recreational golf. A Nassau is three separate bets in one: front nine, back nine, and overall 18. For example, a “$5 Nassau” means $5 for the front, $5 for the back, and $5 for the total — so a maximum of $15 at stake. Players often add “presses” (automatic double-or-nothing bets when trailing by 2).
Nassau — frequently asked
Nassau — how does it work?
- Three separate bets: front nine, back nine, and overall 18
- A “$5 Nassau” = $5 front + $5 back + $5 total = $15 max at stake
Nassau — what are presses?
- An automatic double-or-nothing bet triggered when trailing by 2 holes
- Creates a new side bet for the remaining holes
- Presses on presses can make the last few holes very expensive
More on Nassau
The Nassau is the default bet in American golf, and presses are why it stops being a $5 game.
- Course Handicap calculatorFront-nine and back-nine strokes are allocated by hole index.
- Find a groupPost a game and agree the stakes.
- Match playA Nassau is three match-play bets stacked on one round.
Other game formats
Stroke Play
The most common competitive format — count every stroke, lowest total wins.
Match Play
A hole-by-hole format — win the most holes, not the lowest total score.
Stableford
A points-based scoring system where the highest point total wins.
Best Ball
A team format where each player plays their own ball and the best score on each hole counts.
Scramble
The most popular team format — pick the best shot each time, everyone plays from there.
Alternate Shot
A two-person format where partners take turns hitting the same ball.
Skins
A gambling format where each hole has a set value — win the hole outright, win the money.