The R&A advises of ‘surging’ growth in golf across the Asia-Pacific region
New research released by golf’s The R&A shows that the sport is surging in popularity in the Asia-Pacific region.
Research conducted by Sports Marketing Surveys (SMS) shows more than 23.3 million people across Asia played golf in 2020, a rise from 20.9 million in 2016, representing an 11.5% increase - one of the most significant in the world.
Countries to have experienced the greatest increase in participation are China (a 43% rise), Korea (31%), Malaysia (25%) and India (14%).
The total number of golfers expands to more than 24.6 million when taking in the Oceania region and is part of a record global reach of 66.6 million players.
The measure includes club members and non-member independent golfers playing nine or 18 holes and users of driving ranges in markets where course availability is limited.
The figure reflects a positive trend with participation levels rising worldwide after a period of decline.
Commenting on the growth in the game, The R&A’s Chief Development Officer, Phil Anderton advised ‘golf is enjoying a real boom in popularity, including the Asia-Pacific. This is particularly evident in the past two years when the sport could be played safely outdoors during the Covid-19 pandemic.
“The new figures are very encouraging, but we need to work together as a sport to make the most of this opportunity by retaining those people who have returned to golf or tried it for the first time.
“We can achieve this by offering a variety of attractive and flexible options that encourage golfers to play more regularly and enjoy its many health and well-being benefits with family and friends.”
The research showed the growth trend began before COVID-19 and then accelerated during the pandemic as the popularity of golf grew because golfers could socially distance in a safe outdoor setting and stay active to boost their physical and mental health.
The research also outlined recommendations clubs can take to retain new players, including feeling welcome and valued; a friendly culture and relaxed atmosphere; participation options based on ability and experience; good customer service; having an efficient booking system; the quality and maintenance of the course; and, importantly, playing in an encouraging environment.
The R&A is the collective name of a group of companies that together play a significant role within the game of golf. Historically, 'the R&A' was a colloquial name for the Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St Andrews in Scotland.
In 2004, the club spun off its previous governance and tournament organisation roles into the current R&A group, with the club itself reverting to a private members-only club.
R&A Rules Limited is one of the governing bodies of golf worldwide, alongside the United States Golf Association (USGA). The USGA governs in the United States and Mexico, and the R&A in the rest of the world.
They both share a single code for the Rules of Golf, Rules of Amateur Status, Equipment Standards and World Amateur Golf Rankings.
The R&A (Executive) and SMS (Full Business) are members of the Asian Golf Industry Federation.
Images: The Singapore Pro Series (top, credit: Sportfive) and golfing great Sir Nick Faldo at Vietnam's Laguna Golf Lang Co. (below).
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