Women’s golf participation surges to record levels worldwide

Women’s golf is continuing its rapid global expansion, with participation rising across established and emerging markets and reshaping both the sporting and commercial landscape.

New data from the The R&A Global Golf Participation Report shows women now account for 34% of adult golfers across its key markets, up from 31% the previous year. 

The report covers 148 countries across Asia, Europe, Africa, Canada, the Caribbean and Oceania, highlighting the scale and consistency of the growth.

Regional figures underline the trend. Women now represent 41% of golfers in Germany, 36% in Argentina, 33% in Great Britain & Ireland, and 31% in Australia. 

In each case, participation has steadily increased year-on-year, driven by wider access to the game and targeted development programmes.

In the United States, the growth is even more pronounced. The National Golf Foundation reports a 45% rise in female on-course golfers since 2020, with total participation surpassing 8.1 million – the highest on record. 

Women now make up 28% of all on-course play in the US, reinforcing golf’s expanding female audience.

Professional game momentum mirrors participation growth

Growth at grassroots level is being matched by investment and visibility at elite level.

The LPGA offered a record $131 million prize fund in 2025, up roughly 90% over four years, and it will further increase in 2026 – reflecting increasing commercial backing and global audience growth in the ladies game. 

The Solheim Cup contested between Europe and United States also continues to demonstrate the sport’s widening appeal, with its 2023 edition generating 9.5 million viewer hours. 

Notably, around one-third of the audience had never previously watched the Ryder Cup, suggesting women’s golf is successfully attracting new fans rather than simply converting existing ones.

Changing expectations among female golf travellers

Industry leaders say the rise in participation is reshaping how women engage with the sport beyond the course, particularly in travel.

Dolores Brown, Head of Tournaments at Golfbreaks, said: “Female golf travellers are increasingly sophisticated in how they plan and what they expect, the course is one part of a broader experience that includes wellness, culture and, critically, the people they're travelling with. The opportunity is in understanding that these are golfers looking for a different kind of travel with a different set of priorities, and designing product that actually reflects that.”

Her comments reflect a wider shift in the golf travel market, where women are emerging as a highly engaged and influential segment.

Golf travel industry adapts to new demand

Operators are increasingly tailoring products to meet the expectations of female golfers, who often prioritise a combination of elite courses, wellness offerings, cultural experiences and social connection.

The trend will be a key focus at the International Golf Travel Market (IGTM), returning to Cannes from 19–22 October, where women’s golf travel is expected to be a central theme.

Fiona Ashton, Event Manager for IGTM and IGTM Discovery, said: “The growth in women’s golf is one of the most compelling stories in sport right now, and its implications for travel are significant. Across every market we look at - from Europe and Asia to North America and beyond - we’re seeing more women playing, more women travelling and more operators developing product to serve them. These are discerning travellers with high expectations and a clear sense of what they want from a golf trip. The industry has a real opportunity here, and IGTM is where it gets acted on.”

Data highlights evolving travel motivations

Research from 18Players in partnership with IGTM shows that 56% of golfers consider non-golf elements such as wellness, scenery and culture to be “very” or “extremely” important when choosing a golf trip. 

A further 79% say they would consider travelling with larger groups of friends or family.

These findings are particularly relevant to women’s golf, where social experience and lifestyle factors often play a central role in travel decisions.

Women shaping the game beyond participation

The growth of women’s golf is also being driven by those working across coaching, governance, media, retail and operations.

Nicole Wheatley, Founder of the Women in Golf Awards, said: “The rise of women’s golf isn’t just happening on the course - it’s being driven by the women shaping the game behind the scenes. From coaching and course management to media, retail, and governance, women working in golf are expanding access, elevating standards, and redefining what the sport can be. Through the Women in Golf Awards we see their leadership opening doors for the next generation, and the momentum we’re seeing today is a direct result of their vision and determination.”

Her comments highlight how structural change within the sport is reinforcing participation growth.

IGTM Discovery expands industry conversation

This year’s IGTM also marks the launch of IGTM Discovery, expanding the event to include suppliers across technology, equipment, apparel, retail and club operations alongside travel professionals.

With more than 50 exhibitors and over 1,700 golf professionals expected, the initiative is designed to connect demand with the operational side of the game, ensuring facilities and brands are aligned with the needs of today’s female golfers.

A sport at a turning point

With participation at record levels, rising prize funds and increasing industry focus, women’s golf is now a central driver of global growth in the sport.

The combination of grassroots expansion, professional investment and evolving consumer behaviour suggests a long-term structural shift rather than a short-term spike.

As the industry adapts, the ability to respond to the expectations of female golfers – both on and off the course – is becoming a defining factor in the future of the game.

For further information on IGTM, visit IGTM official website