A Look at African American Participation in Golf (2000–2025)

Data from the National Golf Foundation (NGF) and United States Golf Association (USGA) show shifting trends.  African American golfers numbered roughly 1.5 million in 2007 (during Tiger Woods’ rise) but declined to about 800,000 by 2018.  By 2019, African Americans were only ~3% of all golfers (vs ~13% of the 328.3 million U.S. population).  However, other measures suggest growing interest: NGF reported ~4.1 million African Americans played golf in 2021 (up from 2.6 M in 2011), reflecting broader engagement. 

In 2024 record diversity was seen – ~25% of on-course golfers were Black, Asian or Hispanic (an all-time high).  Junior golf participation has surged (nearly a 40% jump since 2018), and today nearly one-third of new junior golfers come from non-white backgrounds, however, exactly how many of these junior golfers were African American is yet undetermined from what we discovered from our sources, as numbers often reflected “people of color”.

• Participation peaked in the late 1990s/early 2000s and then dipped by 2018.
• By 2024, roughly one-quarter of golfers were people of color – the most diverse mix ever recorded.
• Youth golf is growing fast: junior golfers are up ~40% since 2018 .
• NGF estimates ~4.1 M African Americans played golf in 2021 , indicating rising latent interest.

Challenges and Progress

African Americans face significant barriers in golf.  Historically, clubs and governing bodies enforced segregation (e.g. PGA’s old “Caucasian-only” clause), and many courses remain in wealthy areas that are hard for lower-income communities to access.  Equipment and fees are expensive.  Only about 25% of historically Black colleges/universities (HBCUs) field golf teams, limiting the college pipeline.  On tours, only a few Black players have been visible (beyond Tiger Woods, only Harold Varner III and Cameron Champ recently) .

In response, targeted initiatives have emerged.  The Advocates Pro Golf Association (APGA) is a non-profit “with the mission to bring greater diversity to the game”.  Its mini-tour (est. 2008) is ~70% Black and has grown to 13 tournaments (all with reduced entry fees) and ~$350,000 in prize money.  First Tee chapters, USGA IDEA grants and PGA Tour diversity programs invest in youth and underserved areas .  The PGA Tour also pledged $100M over 10 years for social-justice and diversity causes.  Supporters include leagues and stars (e.g. Stephen Curry’s funding for Howard University’s golf program) and organizations like the National Black Golf Coaches Association.  These efforts aim to open access, provide coaching and scholarships, and create role models in the sport.

Voices and Significance

Golf leaders emphasize the importance of inclusion.  USGA President Fred Perpall (the first Black USGA president) said to andscape.com that “today we have a country… on the move towards more inclusion… and the USGA is just reflecting that”.  He notes golf’s unique social value: “Golf is just a proxy for how we want to live our life,” offering connection with others “irrespective of backgrounds”.  APGA co-founder Ken Bentley shared in a Golf Digest interview in 2021 that he agrees that overcoming obstacles is key, acknowledging bluntly that “what we are dealing with is systemic”.  These voices reflect the balance of optimism and realism in the community.

More Black participation at all levels – pros, amateurs and casual players – has broad cultural impact.  It helps break stereotypes of golf as a “white man’s sport,” inspires young Black athletes, and brings diverse energy to courses and clubs.  Expanding representation (through programs, funding and visible role models) not only helps individual players, but also makes the game more reflective of America.  As leaders note, lowering barriers and showcasing success can make golf “more open for all,” enriching the sport and its community .

(Sources: National Golf Foundation and USGA research, and reporting by the USGA and Golf Digest)