Golf has always been an incredibly popular sport, but over the course of the pandemic in 2020, golf saw an unprecedented increase in popularity.
In 2019 across the UK, there were an estimated 3.7 million on-course adult golfers. During 2020, we saw an incredible increase of over 50% to 5.7 million!
During the 2020 pandemic, lock down and the social distancing restrictions left people feeling trapped in their own homes. Golf was one of the few sports you could play safely without violating the social distancing restrictions, so over 2 million Britons picked up a club and learnt to play golf.
Many people found that being able to step out and spend time on the golf course did wonders for their mental and physical health, and for many people, being able to play golf helped get them through quarantine.
Why is golf still so popular?
Many expected the popularity of golf to drop off once the restrictions were lifted, but golf is still going strong. Even though we’re no longer in lock down or facing restrictions, a massive majority of those who picked up clubs in 2020 have got a taste of the wonderful game of golf and aren’t ready to put down their clubs any time soon!
In 2021 we saw a slight dip in players to 5.3 million, but in 2022 we saw the numbers climb back up to 5.6 million, almost surpassing the pandemic all-time-high!
Golf is one of the most popular sports in the UK for a number of reasons. Golf is a sport that can be enjoyed by anyone regardless of age, gender, or physical ability. You don’t need to be an athlete to get good at golf or to enjoy the game.
The social side of golf is very important too – golf is a great way to meet new people, and it’s also a very enjoyable way to spend time with those you’re already close with. Even without lockdown, it’s still important to get out and exercise. Golf is a great way to stretch your legs, get some fresh air, and improve your overall mental health.
Following the massive rise in popularity of golf, the market for golf related gifts has been rapidly expanding, leading to some really great innovation and wonderful gift ideas. If you’re looking for a gift for a golf lover in your life, why not give the gift of personalised golf balls?
Whether they’d love a sleek and professional ball customised with a unique monogram, or something funnier like a silly joke or goofy picture, customised golf balls are a perfect gift for golf lovers!
