The number of registered golfers in Germany rises notably, especially among younger players, but golf remains predominantly older.
‘Golf in Germany is sparking more interest today than ever before.’ With these words, DGV President Claus M. Kobold announced the growth of registered golfers in Germany at the German Golf Association’s annual kickoff. As of September 30, 2025, the number of DGV memberships increased by 1.3% to 695,617 registered golfers at DGV-affiliated golf courses. The sport has grown almost continuously since 2021. The DGV hopes to break the magical mark of 700,000 memberships next year.
Record Number of Golfers in Germany
Notably, the number of golfers is rising mainly among the 19 to 40 age group, contrary to Germany’s general population trend. This trend began last year and continued through 2025, with growth in this age group at 7.45% compared to the previous year. While last year the German Golf Association was uncertain about the reasons for this increase, this year some assumptions are being made. ‘According to the Association, modern communication methods, digital outreach, and a contemporary image of golf are paying off,’ stated Achim Battermann, Deputy President of the DGV. Golf clubs engaging golfers via social media and the improved image of golf in Germany are likely key drivers behind this growth.
An Aging yet Growing Golf Community
Golf remains primarily played by older adults. The largest age group in Germany is 60 years and older, accounting for 46.9% of all registered golfers. This is still less than in Denmark (47.4%) and France (49.4%), but compared to markets like Sweden (31.91%) or Spain (37.18%), German golf is significantly older. The DGV views this trend as ‘relaxed’ given the growth in younger players. ‘Our numbers clearly show long-term loyalty to golf while a younger generation is emerging – a very healthy combination,’ said Alexander Klose, Board Member for Services, Law, and Communication. However, more must be done to reverse the decline in the 40 to 60 age group, where golfer numbers fall nearly as much as young players are added.
Gender Imbalance and Club Numbers
Golf in Germany also remains male-dominated. While golfer numbers have grown over the last two years, female golfer numbers are declining overall. Even in the growing 19 to 40 age group, young women’s growth lags behind young men’s, and girls under 18 are decreasing, whereas boys show slight growth. Membership growth is uneven across clubs; the total number of golf courses decreased by five to 721 in Germany, due to various reasons beyond mere profitability.