The number of registered golfers in Germany is increasing faster than last year, especially among younger people, but golf remains mostly an older sport.
‘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. The total number of DGV memberships increased by 1.3% to 695,617 registered golfers at DGV-affiliated facilities as of September 30, 2025. Golf has been growing almost continuously since 2021. The DGV hopes to surpass the milestone of 700,000 memberships in the coming year.
More Golfers in Germany Than Ever Before
Notably, the number of golfers is rising especially in the 19 to 40 age group, contrary to general population trends in Germany. This trend began last year and continued in 2025, with a 7.45 percent increase in this age group compared to the previous year. While the German Golf Association was uncertain about the reasons for this growth last year, they now speculate that modern communication methods, digital outreach, and a contemporary golf image are key factors. According to Achim Battermann, Deputy President of the DGV, golf clubs that engage interested golfers via social media and an improved image of golf in Germany may be driving this trend.
Older Golfers Still Dominate
Nevertheless, golf in Germany remains predominantly played by older individuals. The largest age group is those aged 60 and over, making up 46.9% of all registered golfers. This share is slightly less than in Denmark (47.4%) and France (49.4%). Compared to countries like Sweden (31.91%) or Spain (37.18%), golf in Germany generally has an older profile. The German Golf Association considers this ‘relaxed’ due to the growth among younger players. Alexander Klose, Board Member for Services, Law and Communication, stated that their data shows people remain loyal to golf for decades while a younger generation is emerging, constituting a very healthy combination. However, much must be done to counterbalance the loss of golfers aged 40 to 60, who are leaving roughly as fast as young players are joining.
Golf Remains Male-Dominated
Golf also remains male-dominated in Germany. While the total number of golfers has grown in the past two years, the 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. Numbers for girls under 18 have even decreased, while boys in that age category show slight growth.
The membership growth is unevenly spread across golf facilities. The number of golf courses in Germany decreased by five to 721. This decline is due to various reasons and not solely due to lack of profitability.