The United States Golf Association (USGA) has released its first report on golfer participation in 2024, which shows a significant increase in the number of people maintaining a handicap under the World Handicap System (WHS). In 2024, over 3.35 million golfers in the U.S. held a handicap, marking a 6 percent rise from the previous year and a nearly 30 percent increase since 2020. One notable trend observed in the data is the growing popularity of 9-hole rounds, with more than 13.7 million 9-hole scores posted in 2024, up 8 percent from the previous year and 40 percent since 2020.
Women golfers in particular embraced 9-hole rounds, with over half of newly enrolled female golfers choosing to play nine holes compared to a quarter of male golfers. This trend aligns with the rising popularity of shorter courses and par-3 layouts, which have become eligible to obtain Course and Slope Ratings under the WHS. These changes reflect the USGA’s efforts to ensure the WHS accurately reflects how the game is played across the country. Steve Edmondson, managing director of handicapping and course rating at the USGA, noted the exciting year-over-year trends that have emerged as the WHS has matured.
Contrary to common perception, the data reveals that maintaining a handicap is not just for elite golfers competing in high-level events. In 2024, 94.5 percent of the 77 million rounds posted were recreational, indicating a growing trend of playing and posting scores for fun. The average Handicap Index for male players is 14.2, while female players play to a 28.7 on average. Additionally, male players posted more scores on average (23.8) compared to female players (19.6).
The report also unveils some interesting statistics, such as June being the most popular month for posting scores and Nevada leading in the percentage of 18-hole rounds. Maine takes the spotlight for the highest percentage of 9-hole rounds at 32.6. Alongside the data release, the USGA has introduced technological advancements to enhance the handicap-keeping experience for golfers. The newly redesigned GHIN mobile app features GHIN Rewind, a feature that provides golfers with a personalized year-in-review including Handicap Index changes, total rounds played, hardest and easiest courses, most-played courses, and more.
As the year comes to a close, golfers can review their game statistics from the past 12 months through GHIN Rewind. To continue enjoying these benefits in 2025, golfers must consistently keep and post their scores. If you haven’t done so already, signing up to maintain a handicap and post scores is essential to fully utilizing the features and insights provided by the WHS and USGA. Whether you’re a casual golfer looking to track your progress or a seasoned player aiming to improve your game, participation in the WHS and posting scores can offer valuable insights and engagement opportunities for golf enthusiasts of all levels.
