A mulligan isn't in the Rules of Golf — it's a casual convention, typically a first-tee 'breakfast ball' the group agrees to. In competition or handicap rounds, it's not allowed.
Is a mulligan legal in golf?
No — a mulligan isn't in the Rules of Golf. What you're actually doing when you take a mulligan is playing a ball under stroke and distance — without counting the penalty.
The 'breakfast ball' convention
Each player gets one "breakfast ball" — a free re-tee on the first hole, typically only used if the opening drive is really bad.
When a mulligan costs you
| Situation | What the rules say |
|---|---|
| Friendly round, group agrees | Fine — it's a local agreement, not a rules issue |
| Competition / tournament | Not allowed — playing a second ball without penalty is a rules breach |
| Handicap round | Not allowed — scores must be played as they happen |
| Match play with opponent's consent | Could be allowed as a concession or agreement |
Quick answers
Are mulligans legal in golf? No. Mulligans are a casual-golf convention, usually agreed to by the group before the round.
What is a breakfast ball in golf? The traditional first-tee mulligan.
Do mulligans count for handicap? No.
Can you take a mulligan in a tournament? No.