The number of registered golfers in Germany rises more sharply than last year, 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 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 registered players at DGV-affiliated courses as of September 30, 2025. Golf has been growing almost continuously since 2021. The DGV hopes to surpass the magical mark of 700,000 memberships next year.
More Golfers in Germany Than Ever Before
Notably, the number of golfers especially rises in the 19 to 40 age group, contrary to Germany’s demographic trend. This trend, which had already emerged last year, continued into 2025 with growth of 7.45% compared to the previous year. While the German Golf Association was unsure last year about the reasons behind this growth, speculations surfaced this year. ‘According to the association, modern communication methods, digital channels, and a contemporary golf image are paying off,’ stated Achim Battermann, DGV Vice President, in the press release. Golf clubs engaging potential players via social media and the improved image of golf in Germany might be key factors for this trend.
Golfers Aged 60+ Predominate
However, the sport remains mostly played by older individuals. The largest age group in Germany is 60 and older, comprising 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%), golf in Germany is significantly older. The German Golf Association welcomes this trend as ‘relaxed’ due to the growth among younger people. ‘Our numbers show impressively that people remain loyal to golf for decades. At the same time, a younger generation is growing – this is a very healthy combination,’ explained Alexander Klose, Head of Services, Law and Communication. To replace the inevitably retiring older golfers, much still needs to be done, especially to halt the decline in golfers aged 40 to 60, which nearly offsets the growth among young players.
Gender and Club Trends
Golf remains male-dominated. While the total number of golfers has increased in the last two years, the number of female golfers has declined. Even in the growing 19 to 40 age group, growth among young women is slower than among young men. Among girls under 18, numbers are declining, whereas boys show slight growth.
Membership growth is uneven across golf courses and reflects an average. The number of golf courses in Germany decreased by 5 to 721, due to various reasons not solely related to profitability.