The following may help but it is up to you to say if the ball moved back to its original position. It is unlikely that a rules official would be able to make a judgement. Remember golf is a game of integrity.

Decision 18/1 Ball Moves Vertically Downward


Q. A ball lying in long grass slips vertically downward. Or a ball is accidentally stepped on and pressed down, say a quarter of an inch, in the grass or into the ground. In each case, has the ball moved?

A. Yes, unless the ball returns to its original position. The direction of movement is immaterial.