Women’s Golf in the Global Spotlight as Anticipation Builds for AIG Women’s Open 2025
London, 28 July 2025 – As the countdown begins to the AIG Women’s Open 2025, taking place from 30th July – 3rd August at Royal Porthcawl, women’s golf is making headlines worldwide - not just for the competition, but for the cultural momentum reshaping the sport. The global event is set to become the largest women’s sporting event in Wales, [1]the championship is emblematic of the game’s surging popularity and the shifting dynamics in golf travel.
Over the past five years, interest in women’s professional golf has soared, with record-breaking attendance, increased prize funds, and growing media visibility. This surge is reflected in travel behaviours as well - with a rising number of fans and players planning trips around key events in the LPGA and LET calendars.
“Women’s golf has become one of the most exciting and progressive stories in sport,” said Fiona Ashton, Event Manager at IGTM. “We’re seeing a major cultural shift - fans want to be part of this movement. From playing iconic courses to supporting the stars of the women's game, travel demand is accelerating in tandem with the sport's success.”
While sports tourism overall accounts for nearly 10% of global tourism spend[2], the female fan base is growing rapidly. IGTM exhibitors and buyers are witnessing these shifts firsthand.
“In recent years, we have seen a remarkable rise in women’s golf tourism, with more female golfers seeking experiences that combine top-level golf with wellness and a welcoming atmosphere,” said Raquel Galván Aparicio, Director of Sales and Marketing at Precise Resort El Rompido. “Many women are looking for resorts where they feel comfortable and valued. At El Rompido, we are proactive in creating the ideal environment for women golfers - in fact, our facilities have hosted the largest Ladies Pro-Am in Europe for over ten years. Our General Manager, Director of Sales, and Golf Director are all women, reflecting our genuine commitment to supporting and empowering women in golf.”
“We’re seeing a rising trend in women taking up golf, driven by the growth of social golf venues like simulator bars popping up around the UK,” said Dolores Brown, Head of Tournaments at Golfbreaks. “While more women are getting involved both on and off the course, the journey from picking up a club to booking a golf trip is still a long one for many beginners.To better understand and support this growing audience, our Women’s Golfbreaks Team has started hosting social, inclusive events designed to connect with female golfers and learn more about their needs and interests. One key insight we’ve gained is that there’s no one-size-fits-all approach when it comes to women and golf travel. However, one theme that consistently stands out is the desire for a strong sense of community.”
As destinations and brands look ahead to capitalise on this momentum, International Golf Travel Market (IGTM), taking place in Cannes from 20–23 October 2025, will provide a vital platform for the golf travel industry to engage with this growing opportunity. With tailored appointments, strategic networking, and a spotlight on innovation, IGTM is the gateway to the next generation of golf travellers.
For further information on IGTM, please visit: www.igtmarket.com
[1] https://www.aigwomensopen.com/news/2024/08/royal-porthcawl-wales-lydia-ko-womens-sport
NOTES TO EDITORS
International Golf Travel Market (IGTM) now in its 28th edition, is the meeting place for the global B2B golf travel community. Golf tourism suppliers join pre-qualified buyers and international press for four days of unmissable pre-scheduled appointments, exclusive networking opportunities and invaluable industry and trend updates. Taking place in a different destination every year, IGTM brings together golf tourism professionals from across the globe. www.IGTMarket.com
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