The number of registered golfers in Germany is rising faster than last year, especially among younger people, but 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 at the German Golf Federation’s annual kickoff. Overall, the number of DGV memberships increased by 1.3% to 695,617 registered golfers at DGV-affiliated golf facilities as of September 30, 2025. The sport has been growing almost continuously since 2021. The DGV hopes to surpass the magical mark of 700,000 memberships in the upcoming year.
More Golfers in Germany Than Ever Before
Notably, the number of golfers is increasing mainly in the 19 to 40 age group, contrary to demographic trends in Germany. This trend, which emerged last year, continued in 2025 with a growth rate of 7.45% compared to the previous year. While the German Golf Federation was unsure last year about the reasons behind this growth, they now suggest that modern communication methods, digital outreach, and a contemporary golf image play key roles. Achim Battermann, Deputy President of the DGV, stated that golf clubs engaging golfers via social media and the improved image of golf in Germany could be decisive for this trend.
Golfers Aged 60+ Predominate
Nevertheless, golf remains largely an older person’s sport. The largest age group in Germany comprises those aged 60 and above, making up 46.9% of all registered golfers. This share is slightly less compared to countries like Denmark (47.4%) and France (49.4%), but substantially higher than markets such as Sweden (31.91%) and Spain (37.18%). The German Golf Federation considers this age distribution ‘relaxed’ due to the growth trend among younger people. Alexander Klose, Board Member Services, Law and Communication, noted that people remain loyal to golf for decades, while a younger generation is growing in, creating a healthy combination. However, to replace the older generation retiring for age-related reasons, more efforts are needed to stop the trend of declining golfers in the 40 to 60 age groups, which almost cancels out the younger newcomers.
Gender Dynamics and Facility Changes
Golf also remains a male-dominated sport. While the total number of golfers in Germany has grown over the past two years, the number of female golfers is declining, including among the younger age groups. Girls under 18 have even decreased in numbers, whereas boys show slight growth. Growth in memberships is unevenly distributed among golf courses. The total number of golf courses in Germany decreased by five to 721, due to various reasons not solely related to profitability.