Dormie
In golf, the term “dormie” is used to describe a specific situation in match play. It is a term that originated from the French word “dormir,” which means “to sleep”. When a player or team is “dormie,” it means that they are leading by the same number of holes left to play.
- When a player is “dormie” in match play, it indicates that they are ahead by the same number of holes remaining to be played. For example, if there are two holes left to play and a player is leading by two holes, they are considered “dormie.”
- Being “dormie” is a favorable position as it means the opponent cannot win the match outright, but can only extend the match into extra holes if they win the remaining holes.
- When a player or team reaches a “dormie” situation, it is an opportunity to close out the match and secure victory, provided they halve or win at least one of the remaining holes.
- For example, if a player is “dormie” and they win the next hole, they will win the match. However, if they lose the next hole, the match will be extended to additional holes until one player wins a hole to secure victory.
Let's consider a match scenario to understand “dormie” better:
- Player A and Player B are competing in a match play format.
- After 15 holes, Player A has won 4 holes, while Player B has won 2 holes.
- Since there are only three holes remaining, Player A is “dormie” as they are leading by two holes (4-2=2) with two holes left to play.
- If Player A wins one of the next two holes or ties both, they will secure victory.
- If Player B wins both of the remaining holes, the match will be tied, and they will continue playing additional holes until one player wins a hole to secure victory.
Being “dormie” requires strategic decision-making. The leading player can adopt a more cautious approach, aiming to halve the remaining holes rather than taking unnecessary risks. Conversely, the trailing player should be more aggressive and attempt to win holes outright to extend the match.
It is important to note that “dormie” is only relevant in match play, as it pertains to comparing the number of holes won rather than the total score. In stroke play, the focus is on the total score rather than individual holes won, so the concept of “dormie” does not apply.
- To summarize, “dormie” is a term used in golf's match play format.
- It describes a situation where a player is leading by the same number of holes remaining to be played.
- A “dormie” player cannot be beaten outright but must halve or win at least one of the remaining holes to secure victory.
- Strategic decision-making becomes crucial for both the leading player, who aims to close out the match, and the trailing player, who tries to extend the match.
Understanding “dormie” allows golfers to appreciate the nuances of match play and the unique terminologies associated with the game.
