When does the ball officially become in play during a goal kick?

The ball officially becomes in play during a goal kick when it is kicked and moves. In the context of a goal kick, the Law states that the ball must be kicked from within the goal area and must subsequently move. This means that the act of kicking the ball is essential for it to initiate play. Once the ball is kicked and moves, it is regarded as being in play, irrespective of where it subsequently goes.

The other options do not accurately reflect when the ball is considered in play. For instance, simply entering the penalty area does not mean the ball is in play; it must first be kicked and move. Similarly, the ball does not require a player to touch it to be considered in play after the goal kick is taken. Moreover, the requirement that it must leave the goal area also misses the key point that the act of being kicked and moving is what truly marks the start of play.