Arthur Wedge
Well-known member
So what about the other guy that finished above both of them ?
Did Stenson have equity ?
Didn’t realise they were teasing a big announcement
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LIV Golf
- Thread starter MarkT
- Start date
So what about the other guy that finished above both of them ?
Did Stenson have equity ?
Didn’t realise they were teasing a big announcement
SteveW86
Head Pro
Are they releasing Majestics branded tee’s?
Mel Smooth
Hacker
SteveW86
Head Pro
Only 1 left!
Fore Right
Well-known member
Any format of golf that attracts a new audience is, by definition, growing the game regardless of whether that audience is large or small.
That applies to LIV, TGL, or even something like Happy Gilmore.
At the very start of LIV Golf after Micklesons comments and Monahans 9/11 comments etc, both the Liv players and officials knew a fierce backlash was coming, particularly around the source of the funding.
Those early press conferences were brutal and they’re all still on YouTube to rewatch how awkward they really were.
With the benefit of hindsight, it’s easy to say players should have simply stated, “I’m here for the money.” But at the time when the atmosphere was extremely hostile they just couldnt say that.
Instead, the Liv tour gave players messaging to deflect like growing the game, spending more time with family blah, blah, blah
That context matters as to why they said it in the first place.
The growing the game line is now touted all over the place whether it be Liv, TGL, You Tube channels etc
That applies to LIV, TGL, or even something like Happy Gilmore.
At the very start of LIV Golf after Micklesons comments and Monahans 9/11 comments etc, both the Liv players and officials knew a fierce backlash was coming, particularly around the source of the funding.
Those early press conferences were brutal and they’re all still on YouTube to rewatch how awkward they really were.
With the benefit of hindsight, it’s easy to say players should have simply stated, “I’m here for the money.” But at the time when the atmosphere was extremely hostile they just couldnt say that.
Instead, the Liv tour gave players messaging to deflect like growing the game, spending more time with family blah, blah, blah
That context matters as to why they said it in the first place.
The growing the game line is now touted all over the place whether it be Liv, TGL, You Tube channels etc
Arthur Wedge
Well-known member
The issue is how many people watching
Liv or TGL etc were already golf fans ?
Overall the people watching all golf has reduced since the split
So has it created any new audience
Fore Right
Well-known member
I was just giving context to why the Liv Golfers touted the lines they did in the early days of the Liv Project TBH.
I would consider growing the game as people taking up golf round the world rather than people watching pro golf ???
Surely growing the game is seeing increased participation not increased pro golf viewing figures.
When someone mentions the game I think of the golf we play, not pro golf I watch.
Arthur Wedge
Well-known member
Let’s be honest the golfers would have blurted out anything when we know they all just moved for the money - some players were honest enough to admit and that’s fine , that’s the choice many sports men and ladies use - they make a change to make more money
All the growing the game , family time etc etc was all just nonsense and waffle to help them justify their choice
Growing the game will come from grass roots - local clubs and pros
The Pro game will very rarely grow the game when someone watches on telly -most people watching golf will already be golf players or at least golf fans
The biggest boom for golf was Covid
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Beezerk
Money List Winner
Lucifer MorningStar
Well-known member
Ground hog day in here again!
Pin-seeker
Well-known member
It’s all about getting the last word in
Fore Right
Well-known member
Golf is growing according to Chat GPT 2024 results
Global Participation Growth
- A 2024 Global Participation Report from The R&A showed that 108 million people (adults and juniors) now play golf in R&A-affiliated markets around the world, up nearly 3 million from 2023. The
- The number of adult participants increased from 62.3 million to 64.1 million, and junior participation was measured at 43.9 million for the first time — reflecting broader engagement beyond traditional 9- and 18-hole golf.
- On-course participation (9/18 hole) also rose modestly, from 42.7 million in 2023 to 43.3 million in 2024.
kp17
Newbie
Listened to a podcast called straight talk (mark bouris) with greg Norman.
Decent listen for anyone interested, a lot of insight LIV wise
Decent listen for anyone interested, a lot of insight LIV wise
Arthur Wedge
Well-known member
Golf is growing according to Chat GPT 2024 results
- A 2024 Global Participation Report from The R&A showed that 108 million people (adults and juniors) now play golf in R&A-affiliated markets around the world, up nearly 3 million from 2023. The
- The number of adult participants increased from 62.3 million to 64.1 million, and junior participation was measured at 43.9 million for the first time — reflecting broader engagement beyond traditional 9- and 18-hole golf.
- On-course participation (9/18 hole) also rose modestly, from 42.7 million in 2023 to 43.3 million in 2024.
Yep it’s been growing since Covid which was the best thing for golf
But membership numbers has stagnated so more play golf but more aren’t joining clubs which will be for various reasons
Fore Right
Well-known member
If anyone can, Bryson can legit say he is growing the game.
Just dropped another banger of a video with the Reebok Invitational.
Playing to give a random fan 100k if he wins.
Also the guy who holed in one over his house is back for his you tube debut..
Love Bryson and what he is doing.. Game needs more players like him...
Just dropped another banger of a video with the Reebok Invitational.
Playing to give a random fan 100k if he wins.
Also the guy who holed in one over his house is back for his you tube debut..
Love Bryson and what he is doing.. Game needs more players like him...
Arthur Wedge
Well-known member
Again how is it “growing the game”
People are watching him are already golf fans are they not
Fore Right
Well-known member
Wow AW is it so hard to just say
"Yeah you know what Bryson is doing a lot of good stuff on You Tube that is helping grab a new audience by having guests like Steph Curry and Kevin Hart etc that bring in new viewers to the game of golf, kudos to him for trying to do something different when many pro's are just not bothering other than playing tournaments"
He has over 2.5 MILLION subscribers , The core age group of his subscribers is the 25-34 age group.
So when we know the average age of TV viewers is around 65 I think its safe to say he is attracting a new audience to golf.
Or does he have to be on the PGA Tour before you will say that....
Jeeezzz dude.....Your hatred for Liv golfers blinds you to any good stuff they are doing..
Go on I dare you to say Bryson is really good for the game ... go on , deep breath... you can do it ....
"Yeah you know what Bryson is doing a lot of good stuff on You Tube that is helping grab a new audience by having guests like Steph Curry and Kevin Hart etc that bring in new viewers to the game of golf, kudos to him for trying to do something different when many pro's are just not bothering other than playing tournaments"
He has over 2.5 MILLION subscribers , The core age group of his subscribers is the 25-34 age group.
So when we know the average age of TV viewers is around 65 I think its safe to say he is attracting a new audience to golf.
Or does he have to be on the PGA Tour before you will say that....
Jeeezzz dude.....Your hatred for Liv golfers blinds you to any good stuff they are doing..
Go on I dare you to say Bryson is really good for the game ... go on , deep breath... you can do it ....
Arthur Wedge
Well-known member
Being good for the game is different to “growing the game”
You post about how pro golf etc doesn’t grow the game etc etc and then another post saying BDC grows the game
BDC appeals to younger people on you tube - some like watching you tube golfers etc
But it’s not “growing the game”
It might get more golf fans watching something different than watching tournaments and some enjoy that and for them it’s good
But growing the game is done at grass roots level by golf clubs and governing bodies etc
No idea what the PGA tour has to do with it and I certainly don’t “hate” anyone
Mel Smooth
Hacker
I asked Grok…
Is golf growing?
Yes, golf is growing in popularity as of late 2025, with sustained increases in participation, rounds played, and engagement since the post-pandemic boom.
In the United States—the world’s largest golf market—2024 saw record levels across key metrics, according to the National Golf Foundation (NGF)’s 2025 reports:
• On-course participation reached 28.1 million players, the highest since 2008 and the seventh consecutive annual increase. This included a net gain of about 1.5–1.8 million golfers, the largest single-year jump since 2000.
• Total engagement (including off-course activities like Topgolf, simulators, and driving ranges) hit 47.2 million, up 5% from 2023 and 38% from pre-pandemic 2019.
• Rounds played set a new record at approximately 545 million, the third record in four years and the fifth straight year above 500 million.
The sport is also diversifying:
• Women and girls made up 28% of on-course golfers (highest ever).
• People of color represented 25%.
• Juniors and millennials (18–34) drove much of the growth, with youth participation up significantly since 2020.
Globally, participation surpassed 108 million adults and juniors in 2024 (up nearly 3 million from the prior year), fueled by non-traditional formats like simulators and adventure golf, per The R&A’s report.
Industry revenue and supply reflect this vitality: Golf course openings outpaced closures, equipment sales grew, and tourism/related markets expanded at CAGRs of 3–9%. While growth has moderated from pandemic peaks, indicators like “latent demand” (24+ million interested non-golfers) suggest continued potential into 2025 and beyond.
And the reasons behind the growth…
Golf’s recent growth, particularly sustained into 2024–2025, stems from a combination of factors that built on the pandemic-era boom and have created a more accessible, diverse, and appealing sport.
1. Post-Pandemic Momentum and Outdoor Appeal
The COVID-19 pandemic sparked the initial surge, as golf emerged as one of the few safe, socially distanced outdoor activities available during lockdowns. This introduced millions to the game, many of whom continued playing afterward, establishing a “new normal” with record participation levels persisting years later. Unlike the Tiger Woods-driven boom in the early 2000s, which faded during economic downturns, this growth has proven more resilient due to broader demographic engagement.
2. Rise of Off-Course and Non-Traditional Formats
Off-course options like Topgolf entertainment venues, driving ranges, indoor simulators, and adventure golf have exploded in popularity, lowering barriers to entry. These formats are faster, more social, and less intimidating for beginners, attracting younger players and serving as an “on-ramp” to traditional on-course golf. Globally, non-traditional formats fueled much of the nearly 3 million increase in participants in 2024, per The R&A’s report.
3. Demographic Diversification and Inclusivity
Golf is becoming more reflective of broader society:
• Women and girls now represent 28% of on-course golfers (highest ever), with significant growth in female participation.
• People of color make up 25%, with sharp increases among Hispanic, Black, and Asian players.
• Juniors have seen participation rise dramatically (up 36–48% in recent years), driven by programs like First Tee.
• Young adults (18–34, including Gen Z and Millennials) are a key driver, drawn to the social, health, and lifestyle aspects.
Industry efforts to promote inclusivity have helped shift perceptions from an “old man’s game” to a welcoming activity.
4. Health, Wellness, and Social Benefits
Golf’s appeal as a low-impact outdoor exercise promoting mental health, stress relief, and socialization resonates in a post-pandemic world focused on well-being. Players often cite “shot euphoria” (the thrill of good shots) and the social element as motivators, especially in group-friendly off-course settings.
5. Technology and Innovation
Advances in equipment (e.g., smarter clubs, AI-driven analyzers), simulators, and apps make the game more engaging and accessible. Virtual leagues (like TGL launching in 2025) and tech-infused training tools attract tech-savvy younger generations.
6. Supply Stability and Infrastructure Growth
U.S. golf course openings now outpace closures (fewest closures in 20 years in 2024), with short courses and executive layouts booming. Globally, new developments in regions like Asia support rising demand.
7. Latent Demand and Future Potential
Over 24 million non-golfers in the U.S. express strong interest in playing (up 55% since 2019), much of it tied to off-course exposure, signaling room for continued expansion.
Overall, while pandemic restrictions provided the spark, these structural and cultural shifts have sustained golf’s vitality into 2025, with moderated but steady growth across participation, rounds played, and industry revenue.
Is golf growing?
Yes, golf is growing in popularity as of late 2025, with sustained increases in participation, rounds played, and engagement since the post-pandemic boom.
In the United States—the world’s largest golf market—2024 saw record levels across key metrics, according to the National Golf Foundation (NGF)’s 2025 reports:
• On-course participation reached 28.1 million players, the highest since 2008 and the seventh consecutive annual increase. This included a net gain of about 1.5–1.8 million golfers, the largest single-year jump since 2000.
• Total engagement (including off-course activities like Topgolf, simulators, and driving ranges) hit 47.2 million, up 5% from 2023 and 38% from pre-pandemic 2019.
• Rounds played set a new record at approximately 545 million, the third record in four years and the fifth straight year above 500 million.
The sport is also diversifying:
• Women and girls made up 28% of on-course golfers (highest ever).
• People of color represented 25%.
• Juniors and millennials (18–34) drove much of the growth, with youth participation up significantly since 2020.
Globally, participation surpassed 108 million adults and juniors in 2024 (up nearly 3 million from the prior year), fueled by non-traditional formats like simulators and adventure golf, per The R&A’s report.
Industry revenue and supply reflect this vitality: Golf course openings outpaced closures, equipment sales grew, and tourism/related markets expanded at CAGRs of 3–9%. While growth has moderated from pandemic peaks, indicators like “latent demand” (24+ million interested non-golfers) suggest continued potential into 2025 and beyond.
And the reasons behind the growth…
Golf’s recent growth, particularly sustained into 2024–2025, stems from a combination of factors that built on the pandemic-era boom and have created a more accessible, diverse, and appealing sport.
1. Post-Pandemic Momentum and Outdoor Appeal
The COVID-19 pandemic sparked the initial surge, as golf emerged as one of the few safe, socially distanced outdoor activities available during lockdowns. This introduced millions to the game, many of whom continued playing afterward, establishing a “new normal” with record participation levels persisting years later. Unlike the Tiger Woods-driven boom in the early 2000s, which faded during economic downturns, this growth has proven more resilient due to broader demographic engagement.
2. Rise of Off-Course and Non-Traditional Formats
Off-course options like Topgolf entertainment venues, driving ranges, indoor simulators, and adventure golf have exploded in popularity, lowering barriers to entry. These formats are faster, more social, and less intimidating for beginners, attracting younger players and serving as an “on-ramp” to traditional on-course golf. Globally, non-traditional formats fueled much of the nearly 3 million increase in participants in 2024, per The R&A’s report.
3. Demographic Diversification and Inclusivity
Golf is becoming more reflective of broader society:
• Women and girls now represent 28% of on-course golfers (highest ever), with significant growth in female participation.
• People of color make up 25%, with sharp increases among Hispanic, Black, and Asian players.
• Juniors have seen participation rise dramatically (up 36–48% in recent years), driven by programs like First Tee.
• Young adults (18–34, including Gen Z and Millennials) are a key driver, drawn to the social, health, and lifestyle aspects.
Industry efforts to promote inclusivity have helped shift perceptions from an “old man’s game” to a welcoming activity.
4. Health, Wellness, and Social Benefits
Golf’s appeal as a low-impact outdoor exercise promoting mental health, stress relief, and socialization resonates in a post-pandemic world focused on well-being. Players often cite “shot euphoria” (the thrill of good shots) and the social element as motivators, especially in group-friendly off-course settings.
5. Technology and Innovation
Advances in equipment (e.g., smarter clubs, AI-driven analyzers), simulators, and apps make the game more engaging and accessible. Virtual leagues (like TGL launching in 2025) and tech-infused training tools attract tech-savvy younger generations.
6. Supply Stability and Infrastructure Growth
U.S. golf course openings now outpace closures (fewest closures in 20 years in 2024), with short courses and executive layouts booming. Globally, new developments in regions like Asia support rising demand.
7. Latent Demand and Future Potential
Over 24 million non-golfers in the U.S. express strong interest in playing (up 55% since 2019), much of it tied to off-course exposure, signaling room for continued expansion.
Overall, while pandemic restrictions provided the spark, these structural and cultural shifts have sustained golf’s vitality into 2025, with moderated but steady growth across participation, rounds played, and industry revenue.
Arthur Wedge
Well-known member
Great to see TGL is growing the game
