The number of registered golfers in Germany is rising faster than last year, especially among younger people, but golf remains mostly an older sport.
“Golf in Germany sparks more interest than ever before,” announces DGV President Claus M. Kobold at the German Golf Association’s annual kick-off. The number of DGV memberships increased by 1.3% to 695,617 registered golfers at DGV-affiliated golf courses as of September 30, 2025. Since 2021, golf has been growing almost continuously. The DGV hopes to surpass the magical mark of 700,000 memberships next year.
More Golfers in Germany Than Ever Before
Notably, the number of golfers is increasing mainly among the 19- to 40-year-olds, contrary to the population trend in Germany. This trend had already appeared last year and continued in 2025, with growth in this age group totaling 7.45% from the previous year. While the German Golf Association was uncertain about the reasons for this growth last year, this year they suggest modern communication methods, digital outreach, and a contemporary image of golf are paying off. “According to the association, addressing interested golfers via social media and an improved perception of golf in Germany might be decisive for this trend,” states Achim Battermann, DGV Vice President, in the press release.
Golfers Aged 60+ Predominate
Nevertheless, golf is still mainly played by older people. The largest age group in Germany is 60 and older, representing 46.9% of all registered golfers. This figure is slightly less than in Denmark (47.4%) and France (49.4%). Compared to markets such as Sweden (31.91%) or Spain (37.18%), golf in Germany has an older demographic. The German Golf Association sees this as “relaxed,” due to growth among younger players. “Our numbers clearly show that people remain loyal to golf for decades. At the same time, a younger generation is emerging – this is a very healthy combination,” says Alexander Klose, Board Member Services, Law and Communication. However, until the younger generation can replace players lost to age, much needs to be done, particularly to stop the trend where groups aged 40 to 60 lose almost as many golfers as are gained by younger people.
The Gender and Club Trends
Golf remains male-dominated. While the number of golfers has grown in recent years, the total number of female golfers is declining. Even in the growing 19 to 40 age group, growth among young women is slower than among young men. The number of girls under 18 is even decreasing, while there is slight growth among boys.
Growth is unevenly distributed across golf courses: the total number of golf courses in Germany decreased by five, to 721. However, this has various reasons and is not solely due to lack of profitability.