If a golfer accidentally makes contact with the ball while addressing it, the rules of golf state that the situation depends on the specific circumstances of the contact.
According to the Rules of Golf:
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Unintentional Movement of the Ball: If the golfer inadvertently causes the ball to move while addressing it, they are allowed to replace the ball to its original position without penalty. This is clarified in Rule 9.2, which covers instances where a ball is moved.
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Ball Moved by the Club: If the club accidentally strikes the ball while it is in a position of addressing, and if the movement of the ball is unintentional, the player must replace the ball without incurring a penalty.
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Intentional Action: If the movement of the ball was intentional or was made as a result of a stroke (even if the ball was not intended to be hit), then it would be considered a stroke, and the player would play the ball from its new position.
In summary, if a golfer accidentally contacts the ball while addressing it, they typically do not incur a penalty and must replace the ball to its original spot. However, if the contact was part of their backswing or a stroke, it would count as a stroke and play would continue from that new position. Always consider consulting the specific rules or a rules official for more complex situations.