If a practice swing strikes the ball, is it counted as a stroke?

The correct answer is that a practice swing striking the ball does not count as a stroke because a practice swing is intended for practice and not as a part of the actual play of the hole. According to the rules of golf, a stroke is defined as the forward motion of the club made with the intention of striking the ball. Since a practice swing is conducted with the purpose of getting a feel for the swing or loosening up, it is not performed in a manner aimed at playing the ball, and therefore, it is not considered a valid stroke under the rules of golf.

When considering the other options, stating that it does count would contradict the established rules which clearly outline that practice swings are not intended for play. The idea that it might depend on whether it is on the green or if it is the player’s turn also does not hold merit, as the conception of a practice swing remains the same regardless of these conditions. Thus, the fundamental principle here is that an unintentional hit of the ball during a practice swing does not constitute a stroke in the game of golf.