The number of registered golfers in Germany rises more than last year, especially among younger adults, yet golf remains predominantly older.
‘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 during the German Golf Association’s annual kickoff. As of September 30, 2025, the number of DGV memberships increased by 1.3% to 695,617 registered golfers at DGV-affiliated golf courses, marking nearly continuous growth since 2021. The DGV hopes to surpass the magical milestone of 700,000 memberships next year.
Record Number of Golfers in Germany
Notably, the number of golfers is rising particularly in the 19 to 40 age group, against the population trend in Germany. This trend, which began last year, continued into 2025 with a 7.45% growth compared to the previous year. While the German Golf Association was puzzled by the reasons last year, this year at least hypotheses are being made. ‘Modern communication methods, digital outreach, and a contemporary golf image are paying off,’ stated Achim Battermann, Deputy President of the DGV, in a press release. Golf clubs reaching out via social media and an improved image of golf in Germany are likely drivers of this trend.
Golfers Aged 60+ Remain the Majority
Yet golf remains mostly a sport for older people. The largest age group in Germany comprises those aged 60 and above, accounting for 46.9% of all registered golfers, which 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 remains an older sport. The DGV views this calmly due to the growth in younger players. ‘Our data clearly demonstrate long-term loyalty to golf alongside a growing younger generation – a very healthy combination,’ said Alexander Klose, Board Member Services, Legal and Communication. However, much still needs to be done to prevent the loss of nearly as many golfers in the 40 to 60 age group as young people joining.
Challenges in Gender and Club Numbers
Golf remains male-dominated. Although the number of golfers has grown in recent years, the total number of female golfers is declining. Even in the growing 19 to 40 age group, growth among young women is slower than men, with numbers of girls under 18 decreasing while boys see slight growth. Membership growth is uneven across golf courses, with the total number of courses in Germany dropping by five to 721 due to various reasons, not solely due to profitability issues.