The number of registered golfers in Germany is rising significantly, especially among younger people, but golf remains predominantly an older sport.
‘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 as of September 30, 2025, in DGV-affiliated golf facilities, showing almost continuous growth since 2021. The DGV hopes to surpass the magical 700,000 membership mark next year.
Record Number of Golfers in Germany
Notably, the number of golfers is rising especially among the 19- to 40-year-old age group, contrary to the demographic trend in Germany. This trend, which began the previous year, continued in 2025 with a 7.45 percent increase compared to last year. While the German Golf Association was unsure of the reasons behind this growth last year, this year they suggest that modern communication strategies, digital outreach, and an updated image of golf are contributing factors. Achim Battermann, Deputy President of the DGV, explains that golf clubs engaging players through social media and an improved perception of golf in Germany may be driving this trend.
Golf Remains Predominantly Older Men
Despite the youth growth, golf is still mainly played by older individuals. The largest age group of registered golfers in Germany is 60 years and over, accounting for 46.9% of all members—less than in Denmark (47.4%) and France (49.4%) but significantly older than markets such as Sweden (31.91%) or Spain (37.18%). The German Golf Association views this as manageable due to the growth among younger players. Alexander Klose, Board Member for Services, Legal and Communication, notes that loyalty across decades combined with a rising younger generation reflects a healthy combination. However, challenges remain, especially as nearly as many players leave the 40 to 60 age group as join the younger ones.
The sport also remains male-dominated. While the number of male golfers in Germany has grown over the past two years, the total number of female golfers has declined, with slower growth among young women compared to young men. Numbers of girls under 18 are decreasing, while there is slight growth among boys.
Membership growth is not uniform across all golf facilities. The number of golf courses in Germany has decreased by five, now totaling 721, due to various reasons beyond financial viability.