Leading up to the COVID -19 pandemic in 2020, the golf industry was seeing little growth in rounds of golf, instruction, and equipment sales. Even with the popularity of Top Golf, the growth of the game was not trickling down to juniors and young adults.

In 2020, golf boomed after COVID-19 related shutdowns were lifted, with a net increase of 60 million+ rounds that was the biggest since 1997 – the year a 21-year-old Tiger Woods spurred the game to new heights with his breakthrough major win at the Masters Tournament. People gravitated to the outdoor setting and the golf industry adapted and helped golfers feel safe: golf courses had a “no touch” policy on golf pins and bunker rakes, each individual could ride in a private golf cart, and instructors and coaches masked up and socially distanced during lessons.

In 2021, golfers continued to turn out to the course in droves. First, golfers who invested in their game in 2020 continued the trend. The PGA TOUR Golf Academy saw a 40% increase in lessons and golf schools. And equipment sales were up 50% over 2019. Second, many golfers still considered travel (both domestic and international) to be a risky endeavor.

This year, we are seeing the trend continue. With inflation the highest it’s been in decades, golfers are continuing to stay closer to home and invest in instruction, equipment, and rounds of golf. We also see this trend continuing in real estate with home buyers seeking gated golf communities for security and a controlled environment.

If you are considering taking up the game of golf now is a great time to learn. The game is outdoors and can be played with family, friends, or even strangers in a safe setting. For more information on instruction programs please visit www.annecaingolf.com.