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5 interesting facts about golf in Europe
Origin of golf sport
Modern golf as we see it today originated in Scotland in the 15th century. Despite the invention of hockey, in the history of development, there were 3 times Scotland banned golf because the government believed that the sport was bad. This affects military training. Currently, golf is considered Scotland's national sport.
Around the 14th - 17th centuries, trade between Scotland and the Netherlands flourished. The name “golf” comes from the Dutch word “kolf” or “kolve” meaning club. After being introduced to Scotland, "kolf" became "gof" or "gouf" and was officially called "golf" since the 16th century.
Golf is popular as a safe sport during the pandemic
Golf has become increasingly popular over the past 20 years in Europe. According to statistics from R&A and the European Golf Association (EGA), the number of golfers in Europe has reached 10.6 million in 2021, an increase of 2.7 million compared to 5 years ago (2016). In particular, the number of golfers increased dramatically during the COVID-19 period because this is a sport that is considered safe to participate in during the epidemic season.
According to Mr. Ng.T.Tr., a Vietnamese businessman who has spent a long time living in Europe, golf is popular with many Vietnamese people in Slovakia. The mild weather here is ideal conditions for taking place "stick matches" and meeting with family on weekends. Playing golf is also a regular activity of the Vietnamese community in Slovakia.
British passion for golf
Although it originates from Scotland, the sport of golf only really developed when it became popular with British tourists. With many English and Scottish people migrating to the "new continent", the sport of golf has also gradually become popular in the United States. England is also the cradle of the prestigious British Open golf tournament, first held in 1860 in England. Now, the British Open is held alternately at golf courses in Scotland, England and Northern Ireland. The UK has 2,084 golf courses and golf facilities nationwide. Other countries in Europe are known as "paradise" for golfers.
Europe also boasts many of the world's most beautiful golf courses. According to the ranking of Top 100 Golf Courses, France is the country with the most beautiful golf courses in Europe. Among them, we can name the Morfontaine, Les Bordes, Chantilly golf courses... The Netherlands, Portugal and Slovakia also boast some of the world's most beautiful golf courses.
