After careful consultation, the American Golf Association and the Royal Old Golf Club of St. Andrews, Scotland fundamentally resolved their differences in understanding the rules. Both sides reached a consensus on the interpretation of the rules, and unanimously decided to hold a joint meeting every four years to review errors and revise the rules of golf competition. Since then, these two institutions have become the world's recognized authorities for the formulation, interpretation and arbitration of golf competition rules.

The American Golf Association and the Royal Ancient Golf Club of St. Andrews, England, are recognized as the authoritative institutions for interpreting and revising golf rules. The more important golf competitions in the world include the World Cup, the United States Open and other events.