The number of registered golfers in Germany is rising more sharply than last year, especially among younger people, though golf remains predominantly older.
‘Golf in Germany 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. As of September 30, 2025, the number of DGV memberships increased by 1.3% to 695,617 registered golfers at DGV-affiliated golf facilities. Golf has been growing almost continuously since 2021. The DGV hopes to surpass the magical mark of 700,000 memberships in the coming year.
More Golfers in Germany Than Ever Before
Notably, the number of golfers is increasing primarily in the 19 to 40 age group, contrary to the demographic trend in Germany. This trend, which began last year, continued in 2025 with a growth rate of 7.45% compared to the previous year. While the German Golf Association was still unsure about the reasons for this growth last year, this year there are at least some assumptions. ‘According to the association, modern communication methods, digital outreach, and a contemporary golf image pay off here,’ announced Achim Battermann, Deputy President of the DGV, in a press release. Golf clubs that reach interested golfers via social media, as well as an improved image of golf in Germany, may be decisive factors in this trend.
Golfers Aged 60+ Remain Dominant
Nevertheless, older people mainly play golf. The largest age group in Germany is 60 and older, making up 46.9% of all registered golfers. This is slightly less than in Denmark (47.4%) and France (49.4%), but compared to markets like Sweden (31.91%) or Spain (37.18%), golf in Germany is significantly older. However, the German Golf Association considers this ‘relaxed’ due to the growth trend among younger people. ‘Our figures impressively show that people stay loyal to golf for decades. At the same time, a younger generation is following — it’s a very healthy combination,’ said Alexander Klose, Board Member for Services, Law, and Communication. However, much still needs to be done to stop the trend that almost as many golfers leave in the 40 to 60 age groups as young ones join before the younger generation can replace those eventually dropping out due to age.
Men Still Dominate Golf in Germany
Golf remains male-dominated. While the total number of golfers in Germany has grown over the last two years, the total number of female golfers is declining. Even in the growing 19 to 40 age group, the growth rate among young women is slower than among young men. The number of girls under 18 is even falling, while there is a slight increase among boys.
Membership growth does not occur evenly across all golf courses but only reflects an average. The number of golf courses in Germany decreased by 5 to 721 facilities. However, this has various reasons and is not solely due to profitability issues.