Self-Care and Solo Play Shape Golf’s Future

PUBLISHED ON

January 16, 2025

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Editorial Team

Lightspeed

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January 16, 2025

Editorial Team

New Trends in Golf: Self-Care and Solo Play

As 2024 concluded, recreational golf was increasingly popular among younger people. Lightspeed Commerce Inc. (NYSE: LSPD) (TSX: LSPD), a platform that helps merchants deliver top-notch omnichannel experiences, shared new findings from a survey. This survey highlighted changing golfing habits among younger golfers.

Insights from Over 700 Golfers

Lightspeed conducted a survey with more than 700 golfers from the U.S. and Canada. They found that golf, traditionally known for relaxation and socializing, is now being used by Gen Z and Millennials for personal well-being and tech-based experiences.

“Golf is evolving into more than just a sport—it’s becoming a space for self-care, community, and connection for younger generations. The way Gen Z and Millennials engage with the game is different from previous generations—they seek intentional experiences, whether through solo play or tech-enabled convenience. By embracing these trends, operators can unlock new revenue streams, foster brand loyalty, and have a unique chance to inspire the next generation of players.”

JD Saint-Martin

President at Lightspeed

Mental Health as a Key Motivator

The survey results from Lightspeed indicate that personal well-being is a crucial reason for golfers across various age groups:

51% of Gen Z golfers rank mental health and self-care as their top reason to play, alongside social activity and time spent outdoors in nature.

53% of Millennials cite time outdoors in nature as their leading motivator, alongside social activity and mental health and self-care.

65% of Gen X and Boomers value time outdoors in nature most, alongside physical fitness and social activity.

Golf’s role as a personal escape underscores its ability to merge self-care with a connection to nature, resonating with younger people looking to disconnect and immerse themselves in the sport.

Solo Golfing: A Rising Trend

Solo golfing is becoming popular, especially with Gen Z and younger Millennials who view golf as a personal and focused pursuit:

76% of Gen Z golfers and 84% of Millennial players showed interest in playing solo rounds.

29% of Gen Z players and 21% of Millennials always or primarily seek out solo tee times or as a single.

This trend shows younger generations are viewing golf not just as a social activity but also as a mindful, individual sport for personal well-being.

Lightspeed

Technology and Entertainment Venues Reshape Golf

Tech-driven entertainment venues like Topgolf and Drive Shack are transforming the golf experience for younger players:

68% of Gen Z and 62% of Millennials visit golf entertainment venues regularly.

Younger players appreciate the casual, social atmosphere and relaxed environment. These venues offer accessible, fun golf experiences combining technology, entertainment, and community, attracting younger generations who are reshaping the future of the sport.

The Future of Golf

According to Lightspeed’s survey, while golf is consistently valued for personal well-being, younger generations are changing how they engage with the sport. Trends like solo play as a personal retreat and tech-driven entertainment venues as social experiences are being driven by Gen Z and Millennials.

Lightspeed’s Role in Golf

Lightspeed powers leading businesses in golf, such as Founders Group International, Landscapes Golf Management, KemperSports, The Park West Palm, The Sea Pines Resort, Cape Kidnappers, and Advance Golf Partners.

YOU ASKED…

What motivates younger golfers to play?

Personal well-being, including mental health and self-care, is a primary motivator for younger golfers.

Are solo rounds becoming more popular?

Yes, solo rounds are increasingly popular, especially among Gen Z and Millennials who see golf as a personal and focused activity.

How are entertainment venues changing golf?

Venues like Topgolf offer a casual, social environment that appeals to younger players, blending entertainment with the sport.

What role does Lightspeed play in golf?

Lightspeed provides a commerce platform that helps golf businesses innovate and offer superior omnichannel experiences.

Media: Courtesy of Lightspeed Commerce Inc..

Editor’s Note: All listed prices were correct at the time of publication. This article contains editorial selections and paid partnerships. Please note that this article may contain some affiliate links to products and we may receive a commission for selected purchases.

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Golf, Technology

Self-Care and Solo Play Shape Golf’s Future

Lightspeed

New Trends in Golf: Self-Care and Solo Play

Insights from Over 700 Golfers

Mental Health as a Key Motivator

Solo Golfing: A Rising Trend

Lightspeed

Technology and Entertainment Venues Reshape Golf

The Future of Golf

Lightspeed’s Role in Golf