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Interest in golf among non-golfers is close to record levels, even as the number of on-course participants has jumped by 20% over the past six years (with an even bigger increase in engagement among off-course formats). While maintaining high levels of attraction is important, converting that interest into sustainable participation is critical for the game’s future.

In this episode of The Big Swing with Jimmy Roberts -- filmed on the floor of the PGA Show -- Greg breaks down the latest State of the Industry data, including record rounds, almost 38 million Americans playing off-course golf, 20% green-grass participation growth since 2019, and how simulators and social golf are reshaping access to the game.

Momentum across the recreational side of the U.S. golf industry remained broadly positive in 2025. Indicators continue to point to sustainability in both participation and play amid a recalibrated, higher baseline for the game – perspective that’s highlighted in NGF’s annual Golf Industry Report.

NGF President & CEO Greg Nathan will deliver a must-see presentation entitled, “2026 State of the Golf Business – How Sustainable and Resilient is our Industry?” on the Main Stage at the Orange County Convention Center on Thursday, Jan. 22 at 9:30 a.m.

Greg Nathan joins Golf Business Live host Michael Williams for a conversation reflecting on the state of the golf business and economy in 2025, and a look ahead to the game's future.

The past three years have seen record or near-record numbers of U.S. golfers traveling to play the game. What does that mean for the industry at large when it comes to the "travel window" effect?