Nassau Golf

Nassau, also known as "2-2-2," is one of the most popular betting formats in golf. Originally born at the historic Nassau Country Club, this legendary game has become a staple for golfers of all levels. Whether you’re a pro or a high-handicapper, Nassau ensures that no matter how you start, a comeback is always just one "press" away.

What is a Nassau Bet in Golf?

Nassau Golf is a triple betting format that divides an 18-hole round into three independent parts: the front nine (1-9), the back nine (10-18), and the overall score (1-18). Usually played as Match Play, this game gives players three chances to win, allowing someone who loses the front nine to start fresh on the tenth tee. Nassau Golf's defining feature is the “press” - an optional side-bet that lets a trailing player start a new match on the remaining holes to recoup losses from the original wager.

  • 1-9

    Front Nine

    The player with the best score over holes 1-9 wins the front nine bet.

  • 10-18

    Back Nine

    The player with the best score over holes 10-18 wins the back nine bet.

  • Overall Match

    Overall Match

    The player with the best total score over all 18 holes wins the match.

Key Highlights

  • Three separate bets: Front 9, Back 9, and Overall.
  • Automatic presses keep matches competitive.
  • Handicap-friendly for all skill levels.
  • Simple to play with strategic betting opportunities.

Betting Structure Nassau Betting Structure

  • Standard Nassau

    You can place equal wagers on all three bets, such as $5-$5-$5 or $10-$10-$10.

  • With Handicaps

    Handicaps help level the playing field between players of different skill levels, making the game more inclusive and competitive.

Press Feature The Press Feature

  • What’s a Press?

    A press is an additional side bet that can be initiated during the round when a player is losing by a certain margin.

  • Automatic 2-Down Press

    A new bet automatically starts when a player falls two holes behind, creating a fresh opportunity to win back losses.

Scorecard Example

Understand how different scenarios can unfold using automatic presses.

example scorecard of 1v1 nassau golf game

Nassau Golf Game Variations Nassau Golf Game Variations

  • Auto-Press Nassau

    A new press is automatically triggered when a player goes 2 holes down.

  • Press Anytime

    Players have the flexibility to press at any point in the match—not just when losing by 2.

  • Team Nassau

    Play with partners using best ball or alternate shot formats.

Why Play Nassau Why Play Nassau Golf?

  • Multiple Opportunities

    Three separate bets (front nine, back nine, and overall) ensure the competition remains engaging throughout the round.

  • Strategic Depth

    Smart use of presses can help recover losses or maximize winnings.

  • Always Exciting

    No one is ever truly out of the match, thanks to the pressing opportunities that keep everyone in the game until the end.