A recent article from Inc. magazine highlights the positives of the golf industry, reminding readers of the many attributes the game continues to possess. “The game has tremendous international reach, an array of young stars, and continues to innovate toward growth.”
Kai Sato writes, in part:
When you talk to golfers, many will tell you that they “only wish they’d started playing earlier.” This is happening. In 2015, over 2M new golfers took up the game, many of whom were junior-age. Bolstered by nonprofits like the First Tee and the Drive, Chip & Putt Championship, young golfers of all backgrounds can access the game. Golf also benefits from a stable of young stars, like Jordan Spieth, Rickie Fowler, Rory McIlroy, and Justin Thomas, which galvanizes interest from kids. Meanwhile, social media provides them with unprecedented access to such stars, enabling kids to see their daily lives and study their golf swings.
Perhaps the greatest catalyst of golf will be increased play from millennials. With a headcount of roughly 92M, it is the most influential population in the US. Though some millennials are bogged down with their careers and young families, they are beginning to play more golf than ever before, according to sports attorney, Darren Heitner. Over time, more millennials will discover that golf can be enjoyed for the duration of their lives and that it can provide vocational advantages unrivaled by other sports.
Aside from growth in the US, it’s also important to note that golf is truly a global game. While it’s a reach for the NFL to hold a game in Mexico City, marquee professional golf events take place annually all over Europe, Asia, Australia, and South Africa. Furthermore, there are burgeoning markets abroad, especially Korea.
The complete article can be found here.