Ball moved by natural forces

Not insignificant if a ball has been dropped or put back according to a rule:
Rule 9.3 Ball moved by natural forces

Exception 2: The ball must be put back if it moves to another part of the court or out of bounds after it has been dropped, put back or returned.

It would certainly be unfairly harsh if, for example, a ball that had been dropped from the ground into the fairway first came to rest on the fairway, then rolled into the out-of-bounds area and was counted as a lost ball.

If the player puts the original or another ball into play by dropping, laying down or returning it, and if natural forces cause the ball to move at rest so that it comes to rest in an area of the course or out of bounds, the ball must be returned to its original position (which must be estimated if not known) (see Rule 14.2). However, see exception 1 for a ball that has been put back on the green.

In the meantime, if you would like to know more about the Rules of Golf, please contact me directly at hans.kienesberger@golf.at.