3-Minute Business Insights
Amid increases in U.S. golfers and rounds-played over the past six years, the number of people participating in leagues – whether run internally by golf facilities or externally by national organizations – has jumped dramatically. This engagement is outpacing broader on-course participation changes in the post-pandemic era.
"Being in your dream job ... now that's gangster!"
Greg Nathan reflects with the United States Golf Association’s Golf Journal on his path from Madison Avenue to becoming CEO of the National Golf Foundation, golf's leading data insights and strategic consulting organization.
Topic: Media & Marketing
Topics: Associations, Business Management, Course Operations, Design & Construction, Equipment & Gear, Events & Tourism, Facility Management, Facility Services, Green-Grass Facility, Instruction, Media & Marketing, Off-course Facility, Real Estate & Investment, Retail, Specialized Services, Technology & Innovation
There was a time not so long ago when the question was “Why doesn’t golf grow?” Today, the industry is experiencing a resurgence that would have been difficult to predict.
Member Participation Update: Record Momentum Continues
This member research complements NGF's annual Golf Participation in the U.S. Report, providing the latest data on golf participation — from changes in traditional green-grass participation to detailed information on key segments such as females, people of color and juniors. Also highlighted is the annual golfer "churn," the regular inflow and outflow within the game that impacts participation levels.
Summary of Golf Participation in the U.S. – 2026
