The number of registered golfers rises more than last year, especially among younger people, though golf remains predominantly older.
‘Golf in Germany sparks more interest than ever before.’ With these words, DGV President Claus M. Kobold announces the growth of registered golfers in Germany at the annual kickoff of the German Golf Association. The total number of DGV memberships increased by 1.3% to 695,617 as of September 30, 2025, across DGV-affiliated golf courses. Golf has been growing almost continuously since 2021, and the DGV hopes to break the 700,000 membership mark next year.
Record Number of Golfers in Germany
Notably, the number of golfers aged 19 to 40 is increasing, contrary to Germany’s demographic trend. This growth in this age group is 7.45% compared to the previous year and has continued since last year. While the German Golf Association was previously unsure about the reasons for this growth, this year they suggest it may be due to modern communication methods, digital outreach, and a contemporary golf image, according to Achim Battermann, DGV Vice President. Golf clubs engaging interested players via social media and an improved public perception of golf in Germany are likely drivers of this trend.
Older Golfers Still Prevail
However, golf remains predominantly played by older people. The largest age group in Germany is those aged 60 and over, making up 46.9% of registered golfers. This is slightly less than in Denmark (47.4%) and France (49.4%), but higher than in Sweden (31.91%) or Spain (37.18%), indicating an older golfing population in Germany. The DGV considers this ‘relaxed’ due to the growing younger generation. Alexander Klose, Board member for Services, Law, and Communication, remarks that the sport benefits from loyal older golfers and a younger generation stepping in, representing a healthy balance. However, challenges remain as golfers aged 40 to 60 decline almost as much as young golfers join.
Gender Disparities and Club Numbers
Golf in Germany remains male-dominated. Although overall golfer numbers have grown in recent years, the total number of female golfers is declining. Growth among young women (19-40) is slower than among young men, and the number of girls under 18 is decreasing, while boys see slight growth. Membership growth is unevenly distributed across courses, with the number of golf clubs decreasing by 5 to 721 in Germany, due to various reasons beyond just profitability.