In golf, "4 ball" or "four-ball" is a pairs playing format where two teams of two players each compete. Each player plays their own golf ball throughout the round, so four balls are in play per hole—hence the name "four-ball." The team's score for each hole is the lower score of the two partners on that hole. This format can be played as either stroke play or match play. It is also known as "better ball" or "best ball." In stroke play, the team with the lowest aggregate of the best scores on each hole wins. In match play, the team whose member has the lowest score on a hole wins that hole. Only one member of the pair needs to complete the hole. Four-ball is popular in amateur golf and professional team competitions such as the Ryder Cup, Solheim Cup, and Presidents Cup. The format encourages strategic play, where one partner may play more aggressively while the other plays conservatively to ensure a good team score on each hole.