The number of registered golfers in Germany is rising more sharply than last year, especially among younger people, but golf remains predominantly older.
‘Golf in Germany sparks more interest than ever before.’ With these words, DGV President Claus M. Kobold announced the growth of registered golfers in Germany at the annual kickoff of the German Golf Association. By the cut-off date of September 30, 2025, the number of DGV memberships had increased by 1.3% to 695,617 registered golfers at DGV-affiliated golf facilities. This represents almost continuous growth in golf since 2021. The DGV hopes to surpass the magical milestone 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 age group between 19 and 40 years, contrary to the population trend in Germany. This trend, which became apparent last year, continued into 2025. Growth in this group amounts to 7.45 percent compared to the previous year. While the German Golf Association was still puzzled about the reasons for this growth last year, this year at least some speculations are being expressed. ‘According to the association, modern communication methods, digital engagement, and a contemporary golf image are paying off,’ stated Achim Battermann, Deputy President of the DGV, in the press release. Golf clubs reaching out to interested golfers via social media and an improved image of golf in Germany might be decisive for this trend.
Golfers Aged 60+ Predominate
However, golf is still mainly played by older people. The largest age group in Germany is 60 years and older, making up 46.9 percent of all registered golfers. This is slightly less than in Denmark (47.4 percent) and France (49.4 percent). Compared to markets like Sweden (31.91 percent) or Spain (37.18 percent), golf in Germany is considerably older. The German Golf Association views this as ‘relaxed,’ given the growth trend among younger people. ‘Our figures impressively show that people remain loyal to golf over decades. At the same time, a younger generation is coming up – that is a very healthy combination,’ said Alexander Klose, Board Member for Services, Legal Affairs, and Communication. However, much still needs to be done until the younger generation can replace the older golfers who eventually drop out due to age, especially to stop the trend that nearly as many golfers drop out in the 40 to 60 age groups as young people join.
The sport is not only older but also male-dominated. While the total number of golfers in Germany has grown in the past two 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 among young men. Among girls under 18, the numbers are even decreasing, while boys show slight growth.
Membership growth is not evenly spread across all golf clubs but reflects an average. The number of golf facilities decreased by five to 721 in Germany, due to various reasons, not solely lack of profitability.