The number of registered golfers is rising more sharply than last year, especially among younger people, but golf remains predominantly old.
‘Golf in Germany sparks more interest today than ever before.’ With these words, DGV President Claus M. Kobold announces 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 golf courses by the cut-off date of September 30, 2025. Golf has been growing almost continuously since 2021. The DGV hopes to break the magic mark of 700,000 memberships next year.
More Golfers in Germany Than Ever Before
Notably, the number of golfers is rising primarily among the 19-40 age group, contrary to the general population trend in Germany. This trend, which was already apparent last year, continued in 2025 with an overall growth of 7.45% compared to the previous year. While the German Golf Association was still puzzled about the reasons last year, this year some assumptions have been made. ‘According to the association, modern communication methods, digital outreach, and a contemporary golf image are paying off,’ states Achim Battermann, Deputy President of the DGV. Golf clubs reaching out to interested golfers via social media and an improved image of golf in Germany are likely key factors for this trend.
Golfers Aged 60+ Remain the Majority
Nevertheless, golf is still predominantly played by older people. The largest age group in Germany consists of those 60 years and older, making up 46.9% of registered golfers. This is slightly less than in Denmark (47.4%) and France (49.4%). Compared to markets like Sweden (31.91%) or Spain (37.18%), golf in Germany is significantly older. The German Golf Association views this as ‘relaxed’ due to the growth trend among younger people. ‘Our numbers clearly show people remain loyal to golf over decades. At the same time, a younger generation is growing – this is a very healthy combination,’ says Alexander Klose, Board Member for Services, Legal, and Communication. However, much still needs to be done to stop the trend of almost as many golfers leaving in the 40-60 age group as are joining from the younger generation.
Golf remains male-dominated. While the number of golfers has risen over the last two years, the total number of female golfers is declining. Even within the growing 19-40 age range, growth among young women is slower than among young men, with numbers of girls under 18 decreasing while boys show slight growth.
The membership growth is not evenly distributed across all golf courses but reflects an average. The number of golf courses in Germany has decreased by 5 to 721, due to various reasons not solely related to profitability.