The number of registered golfers rises significantly, especially among younger players, though golf remains mostly a sport for older generations.
“Golf in Germany today sparks more interest than ever before.” With these words, DGV President Claus M. Kobold announced the growth of registered golfers in Germany at the annual kickoff of the German Golf Association. The total number of DGV memberships increased by 1.3% to 695,617 registered golfers at DGV-affiliated clubs as of September 30, 2025. Golf has been growing almost continuously since 2021. The DGV hopes to surpass the magic mark of 700,000 memberships in the coming year.
Record Number of Golfers in Germany
Notably, the number of golfers is rising primarily among the 19 to 40 age group, contrary to overall demographic trends in Germany. This trend, which began last year, continued through 2025, with growth in this age group reaching 7.45% compared to the previous year. While the German Golf Association was unsure last year about the reasons behind this growth, assumptions are now emerging. According to Achim Battermann, Deputy President of the DGV, “Modern communication methods, digital engagement, and a contemporary golf image” are likely contributing factors. Golf clubs reaching interested players through social media and an improved image of golf in Germany might be driving this trend.
Golf in Germany Remains Older and Male-Dominated
Despite this rise, golf continues to be predominantly played by older individuals. The largest age group in Germany is 60 years and older, representing 46.9% of registered golfers. This is slightly lower than in Denmark (47.4%) and France (49.4%), but considerably older compared to markets like Sweden (31.91%) or Spain (37.18%). The German Golf Association views this relaxed due to the growing younger generation taking up golf. Alexander Klose, Board Member for Services, Law, and Communication, states, “Our data clearly show that people remain loyal to golf for decades while a younger generation is growing — a very healthy combination.” However, more efforts are necessary to counter the decline in golfers between 40 and 60 years, where losses nearly match incoming younger players.
Golf also remains male-dominated. While the overall number of golfers in Germany has grown over the past two years, the total number of female golfers is declining. Even within the growing 19 to 40 age group, growth among young women is slower than among young men. For girls under 18, numbers are decreasing, whereas boys show slight growth.
Membership growth does not spread evenly across all golf clubs, as it only reflects an average. The number of golf courses in Germany has decreased by 5 to 721. However, this decline has various causes and is not solely due to lack of profitability.