50 Million Golfers in the U.S.? Yes, Says NGF
The sport of golf is riding a growth wave. Today, the industry is experiencing a resurgence that would have been difficult to predict a short while ago.
According to the National Golf Foundation, golf’s participant base has grown by 41 percent over the past six years (2019 to 2025) and is approaching 50 million golfers.
More Golfers Were Active 2025
More than 48 million Americans hit golf balls with a golf club last year, says the NGF–whether at traditional green-grass courses or at one of a growing number of off-course facilities that are heightening engagement.
In announcing the publication of its annual summary through year-end 2025, the NGF provides all the latest data on golf participation. That includes traditional on-course golfers and those who engage with golf away from the course.
Golfers Come in Many Forms
The report includes detailed information on key segments, such as beginners, women, people of color, juniors and dual participants (on- and off-course).
The summary also includes what is known as latent demand–the pool of non-golfers who say they’re very interested in playing the game now.
Other information includes regional profiles within the U.S. which provide participation rates, number of golfers and average and total rounds-played.
The NGF has surveyed Americans regarding golf participation every year since 1986 and provides the most comprehensive overview of engagement available within the industry.
To learn more about the NGF and its annual report on golf participation, go to www.ngf.org
