Golf is hitting new heights globally, and the latest figures from The R&A are nothing short of spectacular.
We’re talking about a sport that’s not just for the Sunday regulars anymore but is pulling in more than three million new enthusiasts over the last year alone. That’s right, 42.7 million adults are now teeing off on courses worldwide—outside of the usual hotspots in the USA and Mexico.
What’s the buzz all about? Well, golf isn’t just sticking to the old fairways anymore. We’re seeing people of all ages and backgrounds picking up clubs at driving ranges, trying their hand at adventure golf, and even swinging indoors on high-tech simulators.
These aren’t just fun and games; they’re serious magnets drawing in a diverse crowd, including an increasing number of women and young players.
Phil Anderton, Chief Development Officer at The R&A, said, “Golf’s popularity continues to grow with a significant increase in the number of people playing the sport both on and off the course.
“There are now 13 million more golfers playing on the course since 2016 in R&A affiliated markets, while there are also millions of others enjoying alternative formats of golf, such as driving ranges, adventure golf and simulator golf, which are vital to the growth of the sport.
“New golfer participation programmes with appealing propositions, promotion and imagery are important for encouraging more people into the sport and retaining them in greater numbers.
This is why we continue to work collaboratively with our affiliated national federations and stakeholders to build on this momentum and ensure golf continues to thrive.”
2023 alone saw a tidy increase in golf club memberships, with a special shoutout to the ladies who are signing up in greater numbers.
There’s been a steady rise in registered golfers, up 10% from last year, and interestingly, the shift isn’t just in traditional golf—more than half of those enjoying alternative formats are women. It seems the sport’s future is as bright as a sunny day on the links.
Asia is leading this golf charge, with over 26.2 million adults involved, while Europe isn’t far behind.
It’s clear that these regions aren’t just participating; they’re pioneering new ways to enjoy and expand the game. The message is clear: golf is evolving, and it’s happening worldwide.
Behind all this growth is The R&A’s hefty investment of £200 million over ten years, aimed squarely at getting more people into golf and keeping them there through engaging programs and initiatives.
For anyone with a stake in golf’s world, these numbers aren’t just stats—they’re signs of where the sport can head next.
For all us golf lovers, industry folks, and newcomers thinking of picking up a club, the message is clear: golf is on a winning streak, and there’s never been a better time to be part of this global movement.
