Image from Schorsch on Pixabay
Golf has shifted from a sport dominated by men to one that includes more female participation, especially since the turn of the century. The growth of women in golf has been fueled by various factors, most notably due to increased accessibility, and a concerted effort to break down barriers and promote inclusivity.
There’s something to be learnt going forward, as we delve into the exciting developments in women's golf, and the initiatives and organizations that are working towards supporting and promoting the growth of women in golf - not forgetting the challenges faced by women along the way.
Trends and Advancements in Women’s Golf
The growth of women's golf is nothing short of impressive - a movement that is here to stay. In recent years, there has been a substantial increase in the number of women taking up the sport: According to the National Golf Foundation, the number of women golfers has grown by 14% since 2010, surpassing 6 million participants in the United States alone. This growth is not limited to the United States; it is a global phenomenon, with countries like South Korea, Japan, and Sweden joining in on the trend, and seeing a surge in female golfers.
Today, the women’s golf scene boasts a record of US$12 million for the 2024 US Women’s Open - easily the richest event in women’s golf.
The increased visibility of women's professional golf tournaments has been instrumental to the growth of women’s golf. The famed Ladies Professional Golf Association (LPGA) Tour, a premier women's professional golf circuit, has attracted a large audience over the span of a few decades, and inspired more women to take up golf.
Gender-inclusive media coverage is what it takes to showcase what golf looks like in the 21st century while simultaneously promoting the influence of women in golf.
The success of players like Annika Sörenstam, Lorena Ochoa, and more recently, Nelly Korda and Jin Young Ko, has also helped elevate the profile of women's golf and generate greater interest among female golf enthusiasts.
Not only that, the increased rapport within the golfing community has also pushed more young girls into taking up golf, indirectly propagating the growth of women’s golf. Golf programs specifically designed for girls have gained popularity, providing a supportive and inclusive environment for them to develop their skills.
Additionally, there has been a gradual increase in women's participation in golf club leadership globally over the last decade, with women taking top jobs and excelling in their roles. This has resulted in a new generation of talented female golfers who are making waves in the golfing world.
Image from LPGA
Challenges Abound for Women in Golf
Despite the rapid growth of women's golf, there is still a stain of challenges and barriers that is hard to wash out.
Historically, golf was perceived as a male-dominated and exclusive sport, which has created a sense of intimidation and exclusion for many women who expressed interest in the game. The initial lack of representation and visibility of women in the golf industry has understandably perpetuated stereotypes and hindered the growth of women's golf.
According to Megan LaMothe, Founder and CEO of women’s golf clothing line, Foray, a daunting obstacle to growth is the poor misunderstanding of the needs and preferences of women golfers, perpetuated by male decision-makers.
However, efforts are being made to address these challenges and create a more inclusive environment for women in golf. Initiatives such as the annual "Women's Golf Day" in June and "Drive, Chip, and Putt," a junior golf development program, aim to introduce more women and young girls to the sport and provide them with the necessary resources and support to nurture their passion for golf.
Meanwhile, golf associations and organizations are actively working towards increasing the representation of women in leadership positions and promoting gender equality within the golf industry.
Initiatives and Organizations in Support of Women’s Golf
The LPGA Foundation, the charitable arm of the LPGA Tour, has been at the forefront of enabling female professionals to pursue their dreams in golf and further provides opportunities for women and girls to delve into golf. Their professional programs include scholarships, junior golf initiatives, and mentorship programs, which aim to inspire and empower the next generation of female golfers.
A nod to inclusivity, the Dow Great Lakes Bay Invitational tournament - sanctioned by the LPGA - has donated over US$1 million to local charities, including organizations promoting the advancement of women and girls. The environmentally-forward tournament also encourages sustainability by partnering with various organizations and companies to reuse and recycle materials - it received the first GEO certification on the LPGA tour.
The R&A’s Women in Golf Leadership Development Programme is another notable initiative that aims to promote female participation in the sport through golf clinics, networking events, and mentorship programs. They work closely with golf clubs and courses to create a welcoming environment for women and provide them with the necessary resources and support to thrive in golf.
Image from DOW Championship on LPGA
Lobbying for Growth in Women’s Golf
Professional golfers breaking records and winning championships and passionate pioneers and advocates have made it possible for women to get into golf. The insightful perspectives of these influential female figures shed light on the importance of growth and the impact it has on the sport as a whole.
Samantha Smith
Smith, a professional golfer and advocate for women's golf, emphasized the need for increased visibility and representation of women in the game. She believes that by showcasing successful female golfers, more women and young girls will be inspired to take up golf and pursue their dreams.
Smith also stressed the importance of mentorship and support networks in nurturing the talent and potential of female golfers.
Eleanor Lee
Recognizing the gap in inclusivity in golf, Lee, an Austin-based photographer and content creator, started the group called Hot Girl Golf Club, aiming to meet local US women to learn the sport with. The club has facilitated monthly events and a 900-strong group chat for female golfers, fostering a welcoming environment and a supportive community.
Image from Hot Girl Golf Club
Betsy King
King, who is a retired professional golfer and multiple LPGA title winner, highlighted the significant growth and internationalization of women's golf, noting that the LPGA Tour was and is the best tour in the world to play as a woman player.
To quote King, “Golf has really become a world game, and the women's game is a part of that.”
Supporting Women’s Golf
Supporting the growth of women in golf is crucial for fostering inclusivity and diversity: Small but significant actions can tremendously alter the growth prospects and advancement of women in golf, leading to a more inclusive and diverse golfing landscape.
1. Encouraging Participation and Access
Create accessible entry points for women of all ages and backgrounds to participate without worries in golf, such as beginner-friendly programs, women's clinics, affordable tee times, and daycare options.
2. Mentorship and Role Models
Introduce mentorship programs that pair experienced female golfers with newcomers entering the sport as a means for guidance; at the same time, highlight successful female golfers and leaders in the industry to provide aspirational figures for women and girls looking to pursue golf as a career or hobby.
3. Inclusive Environment and Facilities
Foster an inclusive and welcoming environment at golf clubs and facilities, ensuring that women feel comfortable and valued within the golfing community - this includes incorporating designs to accommodate and appeal to female golfers, with a focus on accessibility and amenities.
4. Educational and Career Opportunities
Provide educational opportunities for women interested in golf-related careers, such as golf instruction, course management, and sports marketing. Similarly, provide leadership opportunities for women within golf organizations, clubs, and governing bodies, to foster diversity and inclusivity in decision-making positions.
5. Advocacy for Women’s Golf
Champion equal opportunities for women in golf, and support initiatives and organizations dedicated to advancing women's golf, contributing to the growth and development of the sport for women at all levels.
Image from Fairmonde Golf Facebook
An Outlook for the Future
The growth of women's golf over these years has been an exciting and promising development in the world of sports. However, there are still challenges that need to be ironed out to ensure the continued growth and success of women's golf.
We can empower women and create a more equitable and thriving golfing community simply by promoting inclusivity and providing resources and opportunities for women interested in exploring golf. Currently, a number of golf clubs and courses offer beginner clinics and lessons specifically tailored for women. These programs provide a supportive and welcoming environment for women to learn the basics of golf and develop their skills at their own pace.
Online platforms and communities dedicated to driving and supporting women's golf are also cropping up - they provide a wealth of information and resources for beginner golfers, from instructional videos and tips to equipment reviews and recommendations, and more.
The foundation has been laid, and it’s only a matter of discipline and determination to help propel the growth of women in golf - take heed and don’t give up on the pursuit of growth just because an initiative misses the mark.