The number of registered golfers in Germany is rising significantly, especially among younger people, though golf remains predominantly an older sport.
‘Golf in Germany sparks more interest today than ever before.’ These are the words of DGV President Claus M. Kobold announcing the growth of registered golfers in Germany at the annual kickoff of the German Golf Association. Overall, 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 in Germany. The DGV hopes to surpass the magical 700,000 membership mark next year.
More Golfers in Germany Than Ever Before
Notably, the number of golfers is rising particularly among the age group 19 to 40 years, contrary to the general population trend in Germany. This trend, which was already visible in the previous year, continued in 2025 with a growth of 7.45 percent compared to the prior year. While the German Golf Association was unsure last year about the reasons for this growth, it is now attributing it to modern communication methods, digital outreach, and an up-to-date golf image, according to Achim Battermann, Deputy President of the DGV. Golf clubs that attract interested golfers via social media and an improved perception of golf in Germany might be the main drivers behind this trend.
Older Golfers Remain Predominant
Nevertheless, golf remains primarily a sport for older people. The largest age group of registered golfers in Germany is those aged 60 and above, making up 46.9 percent of all registered golfers. This is slightly less than in Denmark (47.4 percent) and France (49.4 percent) but significantly older compared to markets like Sweden (31.91 percent) or Spain (37.18 percent). The German Golf Association views this as positive due to the growth among younger players. Alexander Klose, board member for services, legal affairs, and communications, stated, ‘Our figures clearly show that people remain loyal to golf over decades. At the same time, a younger generation is emerging – this is a healthy combination.’ However, to fully replace age-related attrition in the 40 to 60 age group, more efforts must be made to balance the numbers.
Golf Remains Male-Dominated
Not only does golf in Germany remain an older sport, it also remains male-dominated. While the number of golfers has grown in the last two years, the total number of female golfers is declining. Even within the growing 19 to 40 age group, the increase among young women is slower than among young men. Numbers among girls under 18 are even declining, while there is slight growth among boys.
Growth in memberships is uneven across golf courses, with Germany now having 721 courses, five fewer than before. This reduction is due to various reasons and is not solely attributed to financial viability issues.