The number of registered golfers in Germany is rising faster than last year, especially among younger players.
‘Golf in Germany now sparks more interest 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. By the cut-off date on September 30, 2025, the number of DGV memberships increased by 1.3% to 695,617 golfers registered at DGV-affiliated golf courses. Golf has thus been growing almost continuously since 2021. The DGV hopes to surpass the milestone of 700,000 memberships in the coming year.
Record Number of Golfers in Germany
Notably, the number of golfers in the 19 to 40 age group is rising, contrary to population trends in Germany. This trend, which was already visible last year, continued into 2025. Growth in this age group amounts to 7.45% compared to the previous year. While the German Golf Association was unsure last year about the reasons for this growth, some assumptions are expressed this year. ‘According to the association, modern communication channels, digital engagement, and a contemporary golf image are paying off,’ announced Achim Battermann, Deputy President of the DGV, in a press release. Golf clubs that engage potential golfers through social media and the improved image of golf in Germany may be decisive factors for this trend.
Majority of Golfers Are Aged 60 and Older
Nevertheless, golf is still predominantly played by older people. The largest age group in Germany is 60 years and older, representing 46.9% of all registered golfers. This is less than in Denmark (47.4%) and France (49.4%) but higher compared to countries like Sweden (31.91%) or Spain (37.18%). However, the German Golf Association regards this as ‘comfortable’ due to the growth trend among younger players. ‘Our numbers impressively show that people remain loyal to golf over decades while a younger generation emerges – a very healthy combination,’ said Alexander Klose, Board Member for Services, Law, and Communication. Yet, to replace the age-related decline of golfers, particularly in the 40 to 60 age group where attrition nearly matches new younger players, more efforts are needed.
Gender Imbalance and Course Numbers
Golf remains male-dominated as well. While the total number of golfers has grown over the last two years, the total number of female golfers has declined. Even within the growing 19 to 40 age group, growth among young women lags behind that of young men. The number of girls under 18 is falling, whereas boys in the same age group show slight growth. Membership growth is uneven across golf courses; the number of golf courses decreased by 5 to 721 in Germany for various reasons, not solely due to profitability issues.