NASSAU
The Classic Three-Bet Game
🎯Objective
Nassau is three separate bets in one: Front 9, Back 9, and Overall 18. It's the most popular golf betting game because it keeps the match interesting even if you're behind - you can always win the back nine!
3️⃣The Three Bets
Front 9
Holes 1-9
Lowest total score wins
Back 9
Holes 10-18
Lowest total score wins
Overall
All 18 Holes
Lowest total score wins
Each bet is independent - you can win Front 9, lose Back 9, and tie Overall!
📋How It Works
Set Your Bet Amount
Agree on a unit value (e.g., $5). A “$5 Nassau” means $5 for each of the three bets = $15 max at risk.
Play Your Round
Keep score as normal. Results are calculated automatically after each nine.
Settle Up
Winner of each bet collects the unit value. Ties are a push (no money changes hands).
📝Example: $5 Nassau
| Player | Front 9 | Back 9 | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chad | 42 ✓ | 45 | 87 ✓ |
| John | 44 | 41 ✓ | 85 |
Settlement:
- • Front 9: Chad wins → John pays Chad $5
- • Back 9: John wins → Chad pays John $5
- • Overall: John wins (85 < 87) → Chad pays John $5
Chad pays John $5 net ($5 - $5 + $5 = $5 loss for Chad)
📈Press Betting (Optional)
What is a Press?
A press is a new bet that starts mid-match. When you're losing, you can “press” to create a new side bet for the remaining holes. It's a way to get back in the game!
Auto-Press (2-Down)
Automatically creates a press when a player falls 2 holes behind. The new bet covers only the remaining holes.
Press Example
You're down 2 after hole 6. An auto-press creates a new $5 bet for holes 7-9. You can win the press ($5) even if you lose the Front 9 (-$5) = break even!
⚙️Scoring Modes
GROSS (Raw Scores)
No handicap adjustments. Best for players of similar skill level.
NET (Handicap-Adjusted)
Strokes given based on handicap difference. Fair play across skill levels.
🧠Strategy Tips
Bad Front 9? Stay Focused!
Even if you lose the Front 9, the Back 9 is a fresh bet. You can still win 2 of 3!
Press Wisely
Presses add up. Know your risk tolerance before enabling auto-press.
Manage the Overall
The 18-hole total is the biggest swing. A great Back 9 can salvage a bad Front 9.
Know Your Handicap Holes
In NET games, know which holes you get strokes on - they're your best chance to win holes.
Ready to play Nassau?