At the national level, many countries have their own golf federations, such as the United States Golf Association (USGA) in the U.S. or the Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St Andrews in Scotland, which serves as the governing body for the sport globally. These federations typically oversee amateur competitions, sanction tournaments, and represent their nations in international events. They also collaborate with professional organizations to ensure consistency between amateur and professional rules.
Internationally, the sport is governed by the R&A (Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St Andrews) and the United States Golf Association (USGA), which jointly manage the Rules of Golf and oversee major championships like The Open Championship. These bodies work to maintain uniformity in regulations, including equipment standards and course conditions, while also addressing emerging challenges like sustainability and player health.
Local golf clubs and regional associations further support the sport by organizing leagues, lessons, and social events. They often provide resources for beginners, host junior programs, and maintain golf courses to ensure accessibility. Many clubs also adhere to strict membership criteria, including dress codes and playing standards, to uphold the sport’s traditions.
Professional golf organizations, such as the PGA Tour (Professional Golfers' Association Tour) and LPGA (Ladies Professional Golf Association), focus on organizing elite competitions, managing player contracts, and promoting the sport through media and sponsorships. These entities also enforce strict rules regarding player conduct, financial transparency, and tournament integrity to maintain public trust.