The number of registered golfers in Germany rises significantly, especially among younger people, though golf remains mostly an older sport.
“Golf in Germany today generates more interest than ever before,” declares DGV President Claus M. Kobold at the German Golf Association’s annual kick-off. The total number of DGV memberships increased by 1.3% to 695,617 registered golfers at DGV-affiliated courses as of September 30, 2025. Golf has grown almost continuously since 2021. The DGV hopes to surpass the magical mark of 700,000 memberships next year.
More Golfers in Germany Than Ever
Notably, the number of golfers aged 19 to 40 is rising, contrary to Germany’s general population trend. This trend continued through 2025 with a 7.45% growth compared to the previous year. While last year the association was unsure of the reasons, this year they suspect that modern communication methods, digital outreach, and a contemporary golf image are contributing, says Achim Battermann, DGV Vice President. Golf clubs engaging golfers via social media and an improved perception of golf in Germany likely drive this trend.
Older Golfers Still Predominate
Despite the growth among younger players, golf remains predominantly an older sport. Nearly 47% of registered golfers are aged 60 and above, a figure less than that in Denmark and France but higher than in Sweden or Spain. The DGV considers this mix healthy as decades-long loyalty combines with a growing younger generation, according to Alexander Klose, Board member of Services, Legal, and Communications. However, the decline among golfers aged 40 to 60 needs to be addressed to maintain growth.
Golf also remains male-dominated. While the overall golfer population in Germany has grown recently, the number of female golfers is declining, including among young women aged 19 to 40 and girls under 18, despite slight growth among boys.
The growth is uneven across courses, with the total number of golf courses in Germany decreasing by five to 721 due to varied reasons, not solely financial viability.