I'm surprised there is not a greater "Tiger" effect in the chart Bagger showed. I've heard so many times there was a massive Tiger-effect. What the chart shows me is things have stagnated but not turned down necessarily. It looks like the % of golfers considered "core" is pretty steady.
I know by the early 2000's the U.S. had over-built in terms of golf courses. Growth rates in equipment sales has probably slowed and we are starting to see some price competition - which is LONG over due. I'm sorry but a new driver is not worth $400-$500. Manufacturers have been getting away with this because of continued demand. Same is true for the price of golf balls. I think all of the latest developments are 20% technology and 80% marketing.
Golf is just darn expensive and that will always be an inhibitor to bringing new players into the game. Golf is hard. Some people give it up because they never learn enough to enjoy the game. Rounds take a long time. Another detractor.
I've been fortunate to be in a private club for a number of years but I remember the days where I would get up at 5am to try to get a tee time at a muni so I could play a 5 hour round. It didn't stop me from playing but I bet it is a detractor to many people taking up the game.
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