Golf Participation and Apparel Thrive in 2023

News Summary

In 2023, golf participation has soared with approximately 68 million individuals regularly hitting the links. The global golf apparel market is also booming, valued at USD 4.15 billion, driven by rising disposable income and a focus on fashionable, functional clothing. Women make up 26% of on-course players, showing a growing interest among female players. With significant growth projections for both participation and apparel, golf is clearly on the rise, promising an exciting future for the sport.

Golf Participation and Apparel: A Sport That’s Thriving in 2023!

Golf is making waves across the globe, with exciting numbers rolling in for 2023. When you think of golfers, you might picture those swinging their clubs on lush, green courses, but did you know that approximately 68 million individuals are hitting the links regularly? If you count everyone who’s ever taken a swing at a ball, that number skyrockets to over 106 million!

Golf’s Global Reach

In the United States, the game is overseen by the United States Golf Association (USGA), while the Royal & Ancient Golf Club of St Andrews keeps the rules in line for the other 146 countries. What’s even more remarkable is that the R&A’s Global Golf Participation Report for 2023 reveals that 61.2 million adults engaged with golf in various ways across these nations. Of these, 39.6 million are out there playing actual rounds of golf, either 9 or 18 holes. The rest? They’re enjoying the game at driving ranges, simulators, and more.

When we compare these numbers to the previous survey from 2020, there has been a 15% increase in the number of golfers playing traditional courses. Amazing, right? Among the most enthusiastic golfing nations, you’ll find some big players: Japan leads the pack with over 8.1 million golfers, followed by Canada, South Korea, England, and Germany.

The U.S. Golf Scene

The United States shines brightly as the home of golfers, boasting 26.6 million individuals hitting the courses, plus another 18.4 million getting their practice in off the greens. Do you know that over a third of Americans aged five and older are diving into golf, whether by following the sport or catching a game on television? Women are also making their mark in golf, representing 26% of on-course players. What’s more, there’s a rising wave of interest among female beginners and junior players, with participation rates hitting 45% and 37%, respectively.

The Rise of Women in Golf

Looking internationally, South Korea stands out with 45% of adult golfers being female, while Germany and the Netherlands follow closely behind. This increasing number of women taking up golf is a hopeful sign for the sport’s future.

Golf Apparel: A Booming Market