The number of registered golfers in Germany is rising faster than last year, especially among younger people, though 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 golfers at DGV-affiliated golf courses as of September 30, 2025. This marks near-continuous growth in golf since 2021. The DGV hopes to surpass the milestone of 700,000 memberships next year.
Record Number of Golfers in Germany
Notably, the number of golfers aged 19 to 40 has increased, contrary to Germany’s general demographic trends. This trend, first seen last year, continued into 2025 with a 7.45% growth in this age group compared to the previous year. While the German Golf Association was uncertain about the reasons for this growth last year, they now offer some hypotheses. According to Achim Battermann, Deputy President of the DGV, modern communication approaches, digital outreach, and a contemporary golf image are likely driving this trend. Golf clubs engaging prospective golfers via social media and an improved image of golf in Germany appear to be key factors.
Golf Remains Predominantly Older and Male
Nevertheless, golf remains predominantly played by older individuals, with those 60 and above constituting the largest group at 46.9% of all registered golfers in Germany. This is less than in Denmark (47.4%) and France (49.4%) but older compared to markets like Sweden (31.91%) or Spain (37.18%). The DGV views this as ‘relaxed’ given the growth trend among younger golfers. Alexander Klose, Board Member for Services, Law, and Communication, notes that loyal golfers remain in the sport for decades, while a younger generation is emerging—a healthy combination. However, more efforts are needed to stop the decline seen in the 40–60 age group, where nearly as many golfers leave as young ones join.
Golf also remains male-dominated. While the number of male golfers has increased over the last two years, the total number of female golfers has declined. Even among the growing 19 to 40 age group, young women’s growth lags that of young men. Among girls under 18, numbers are decreasing, whereas boys show slight growth.
Lastly, the membership growth is unevenly distributed across golf courses. The number of golf courses in Germany decreased by 5 to 721 due to various reasons, not solely due to profitability issues.