Why Do Rich People Play Golf?

Last Updated on November 1, 2023 by Daniel

A question that’s been asked repeatedly over the past few years by readers of my blog, and in general by people who have read the book: “Why Do Rich People Play Golf?”

The answer, of course, is that golf is a social event.

To be sure, some of the wealthiest and most famous people in the world play golf. But that’s not the only reason why they play.

They play golf because it’s a great social event that allows them to meet people and socialize. And many people who don’t know that much about the world of the wealthy and the rich, or who might assume that anyone can play golf would be surprised to find out what it takes to play golf.

Here are 9 reasons why rich people play golf.

Table of Contents

They Have the Financial Means to Play It

Golf equipment, especially high-quality equipment, isn’t cheap. There are numerous items to purchase, and the equipment alone can easily cost several thousand dollars. When you consider golf club membership fees, it’s easy to see why maintaining a golf passion might be prohibitively expensive for the average person.

Not only that, but if you want to improve your golf game, you’ll need to take some lessons, which can be costly, especially if you want a competent instructor.

Golf elevates one’s social standing.

Golf has become connected with money and status due to its high expenses compared to other sports. As a result, even those who would not normally play golf sign up for a golf club membership and begin playing. It’s more of a status symbol than peer pressure. Many people naturally believe you are well-off if you play golf.

Not only that but belonging to an exclusive or expensive golf club carries with it a greater social prestige. A more opulent golf club has higher membership costs, so only the very wealthy can afford it – being a member signifies that you are a member of the “1%.” Furthermore, some golf clubs are invite-only, so becoming a member of one means you have a lot of high-status contacts and can mingle with the rich and famous.

Golf allows them to socialize.

Golf clubs typically have a large number of rich members. This includes entrepreneurs, financial professionals, Wall Street financiers, CEOs, and even politicians! Many wealthy people who play golf do it for the opportunity to meet and network with other wealthy people, rather than for the sport itself. It never hurts to have friends, and it also provides them the opportunity to collaborate with others on commercial ventures.

It’s entertaining and enjoyable.

Until now, we’ve addressed various non-golf-related reasons why wealthy individuals play the game. Golf, on the other hand, is undeniably enjoyable for many individuals. It’s not for everyone, but it is popular for a reason: it can be a thrilling sport.

Golf does not necessitate a lot of physical exertion.

One factor that may hinder wealthy people from participating in sports is that some sports demand a significant amount of physical exertion. The issue is that some wealthy individuals spend their days sitting in offices, attending business meetings, and making business calls from their vehicles. Some strenuous sports may become difficult as a result of all the sitting.

Golf, on the other hand, necessitates less physical effort. It also does not necessitate players being in peak physical condition, as basketball does. Keep in mind that many affluent people are in their eighties or nineties. Building up enough riches and establishing yourself as a tycoon takes time. For most people, accumulating enough wealth through successful business enterprises requires decades of hard labor, unwavering resolve, and unwavering passion and commitment.

Did you know that the average age of a millionaire in the United States is 62? Playing golf rather than a sport like a baseball makes a lot more sense for someone that age. Furthermore, despite the fact that golf courses are frequently extremely extensive, golf carts make getting around a breeze.

People who are wealthy have more time.

Golf is played by many wealthy people simply because they have the time to do so. People who work from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. may not be able to play golf throughout the day. Rich people, on the other hand, have greater flexibility in their schedules.

It provides them with an opportunity to unwind.

It’s not only about the game when you go to the golf course. Rather, it is a relaxing way to spend the day away from the rush and bustle of the city. Many wealthy people prefer golf courses because they provide a refreshing refuge of green and calm.

Even the President enjoys a round of golf to unwind.

They are able to discuss business matters.

Rich people will occasionally agree to meet on a golf course to negotiate a business opportunity. It gives a more relaxed environment in which they can chat without being interrupted. Also, it provides an opportunity for two people to bond and enhance their relationship. To be honest, it is easier to work out a deal, smooth over conflicts of perspective, and build a plan for success when two individuals can spend some time playing golf together.

Golf is a risk-free activity.

Wealthy business people may not be able to afford to risk getting hurt and missing critical meetings, movie premieres, and other events. If they use boxing or martial arts to de-stress, there’s a good chance they’ll be hurt. Other sports have their own set of dangers. Golf is a generally safe sport to participate in, with little chance of injury.

Final Thoughts

Golf is popular all across the world, not only in the United States. It is true that it is played by the wealthy all over the world, from London to Dubai. In addition to all of the advantages listed above, many individuals find golf to be a challenging activity that exercises both their mind and body, despite the fact that it is not as physically demanding as some other sports. There are multiple reasons to play golf, and irrespective of your motivation, it is always a fun way to relax and unwind.