Is golf a sport?

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Lifestyle

Golf in the United States is a $76 billion annual industry with about 25 million players. Thirty-eight percent of Americans call themselves golf fans.



Proponents say that golf meets the definition of "sport" found in the dictionary, requires physical exertion and coordination, and is recognized as a sport by sporting goods companies, athletic associations, fans, the media, and more. They point to golf's inclusion in the Olympics starting in 2016 as further evidence of its qualification as a sport.

 

Opponents say that golf better meets the definition of "game" than "sport," does not require rigorous physical activity, and can be played professionally by people who are overweight, injured, or non-athletic. They argue that golf is a game or leisure activity, and they cite golf's 112-year absence from the Olympics as proof that it is not a sport.

 

What do you think?

Comments

Fred Klein

I play once a year at the annual Gotham golf outing which is August 17 at Coldspring. I played the scramble with nice people and have fun and then look forward to the great food. Hope to see you there.
Norman Spizz

Golf is a sport that is played with "gamesmanship"

Submitted by KeithCrosby on Sat, 04/25/2015 - 03:06

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Keith Crosby

I would argue that it is a sport. Just because you do not have to be in peak physical condition does not preclude an activity from being a sport. Look at all of the weekend warriors who are injured, over weight or non-athletic who participate in a multitude of sports in their free time such as hockey, basketball, softball and tennis to name a few. Professional golfers can do things with a golf ball that your everyday "duffers" can only dream of. This is no different than an everyday "Joe" wishing they could dunk like LeBron or hit a ball as far as Babe Ruth ....

Submitted by StevenCampbell on Sat, 04/25/2015 - 03:21

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Steven Campbell

In my mind golf is the best sport, where real sportsmanship still reigns, and sometimes if we are lucky even in a tailored and luxurious setting.

For example, the GOTHAM GOLF OUTING on April 17th at the Cold Spring Country Club is a wonderful day on a great golf course and in a setting which is like a LANDLOCKED CRUISE SHIP (think R&R, spa, pool, food, drink, more food, more drink, great prizes and great surprises) surrounded by a beautifully landscaped property. Be there and enjoy a really fine Gotham summer outing!
Cayce Crown

Longest running sporting event at MSG is the Dog Show, so if thats a sport, then golf certainly is...
Corey Bearak

I play basketball two times a week most weeks and some would argue based on my presence on the court (presence emphasized, not my play) and your criteria, it would not qualify as a sport. Frankly, anything game qualifies as sport.

Submitted by SoniaSaleh on Mon, 04/27/2015 - 03:18

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Sonia Saleh

Wow! I didn't know it was a $76 billion industry! That's more than the pet industry which is just over $50 billion. I need to promote golf to pets.

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