Why is golf considered a rich man’s game?

It’s a sport that some people adore and one that can’t escape its own mythology. You hear people say all the time, “Golf is a rich man’s game.” But why is that? If you’re wondering Why is golf considered a rich man’s game?, we can break it down simply and try to understand the reasons behind this perception.

The Cost of Playing Golf

There are a variety of reasons why golf is seen as a game for the rich, and one of them is how expensive it can be. Playing golf is not cheap. You have to fork over dough for a golf club membership, which can run hundreds if not thousands of dollars a year. In addition, there is the expense of golf equipment, such as clubs, balls and shoes. Good equipment is very expensive. Even equipment rental or borrowing doesn’t come as cheap as football or cricket.

Also Read: How Long Should You Keep Golf Clubs?

In addition to equipment costs, playing on a golf course is often associated with fees. Green fees, caddies and, sometimes, golf lessons are an expense that can quickly become a fast juggernaut. For many people, such expenses render golf out of reach.

Exclusive Golf Clubs

Golf tends to be played on private golf courses, which are not open to everyone. These clubs are typically governed by strict rules, and the membership fees are high. Many clubs even have waiting lists that extend for years. Since these clubs are private, membership is determined by the ability to pay the fees and meet social criteria. This exclusiveness is what gives people the idea that golf is a “rich man’s game.”

Golf as a Networking Sport

Golf is not just a sport — it’s business and networking. Many rich people join the ranks of the golfing class to do what successful people do: meet other successful people and make business connections. Playing on a golf course is a quiet and safe way to discuss business. This odd blend of sports and networking is one that most middle- and lower-income people do not have much access to.

Time Commitment

Golf is time-consuming, and time is money. A complete round of 18 holes can be played in five hours. Busy workers with long hours or multiple jobs may also not have the luxury of spending half a day on a golf course. It’s also easier to play golf if you have a lot of time on your hands or a flexible schedule, since more affluent people fall into this category.

Also Read: How good of a golfer is Michael Jordan?

Luxury Image

Golf comes with a luxury image as well. From the stylish golf attire to the expensive golf carts, all that is associated with golf can seem elegant and upper-class. In movies, advertisements and the media, golf is often portrayed as a pursuit for the wealthy or for successful people. This picture increases the sense that rich people are the ones who golf.

Exceptions and Changing Trends

And while golf has long been cast as a rich person’s game, the sport is changing. With the increasing popularity of public golf courses, many cities now provide inexpensive options for beginners. Then there is second-hand equipment, group lessons and shortened courses that are making golf more accessible. Today, youth and other enthusiasts from all walks of life are chipping away at that image.

Also Read: Do Golfers Need to Be Physically Fit Like Other Outdoor Sports?

So, how come golf is a rich man’s game? It’s largely about expense, private clubs, image, networking and time. But golf isn’t just for the rich anymore. Between public golf courses, cheap gear and flexible programming, more people are getting a chance to enjoy this lovely sport.

The sport of Kings was first played by well-to-do gentlemen but it.. Only to emerge as a sport that anyone with the love for, can play. And while the stereotype exists, the love for golf is something anyone can connect with, not just the wealthy.