The number of registered golfers in Germany is rising more significantly 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 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 as of September 30, 2025, at DGV-affiliated golf facilities. Golf has been growing almost continuously since 2021. The DGV hopes to surpass the magical number 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 the population trend in Germany. This trend, already noticeable the previous year, continued into 2025, with a growth of 7.45% compared to the previous year. While last year the German Golf Association was unsure of the reasons behind this growth, this year some speculations have emerged. ‘According to the association, modern communication approaches, digital communication, and a contemporary golf image are paying off,’ announced Achim Battermann, Deputy President of the DGV. Golf clubs addressing interested golfers via social media and an improved image of golf in Germany may be decisive factors for this trend.
Golfers Aged 60+ Predominate
Nevertheless, golf remains mainly a sport for older people. The largest age group in Germany is 60 and older, representing 46.9% of all 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%), German golf remains considerably older. However, the German Golf Association views this as ‘relaxed’ due to the growth trend among younger people. ‘Our numbers impressively show that people remain loyal to golf for decades. At the same time, a younger generation is emerging – this is a very healthy combination,’ said Alexander Klose, Board Member for Services, Legal and Communication. Still, more must be done until the younger generation can replace the golfers who inevitably drop out due to age, especially as almost as many golfers leave the 40 to 60 age groups as young players join.
Male-Dominated and Facility Numbers
Besides being older, golf in Germany remains male-dominated. Although the number of male golfers 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 among young women is slower than among young men, with numbers of girls under 18 decreasing while boys show slight growth. Membership growth is not evenly distributed among all golf facilities but reflects an average. The number of golf facilities decreased by 5 to 721 in Germany, due to various reasons not solely linked to profitability.