Golf: sports, origins and celebrity golfers! Why stars like Will Smith and Cameron Diaz love it
Golf – The sport of golf is one of the oldest sports in the world, and yet it is not losing its popularity. There are many reasons for this continuing popularity. The lifestyle factor is definitely one of them. It allows sporting activity in fairytale landscapes. Even stars like Will Smith, Cameron Diaz or Justin Timberlake like to play a game. The origins are controversial, but that doesn’t change the fact that the sport and the fashion have evolved over the years.
Diego’s passion: Golf and how it all began
The sport of golf finds its official beginning in the 16th century. Official because before it was authorized by the Scottish King James IV, it was played by the Scottish society as a form of pastime without any special records. Even when golf was banned by Parliament in 1457, royal permission was granted. Why the ban? Because it was seen as a distraction for soldiers shooting arrows and more people would be involved in the military. The Scottish population played golf despite the ban, and the sport, like soccer, became a fashionable sport in the independent nations of the time. Thus, the modern sport was invented by the Scots before the year 1500 and legalized at a later date. The first game of golf was practiced in 1574 on the Old Course at St. Andrews. The story continued to develop in the 16th century. Through Mary I of Stuart, the sport came to France and then spread around the world.
But a different origin?
However, there are other theories that see the origin of golf in continental Europe. The Netherlands and France are often mentioned. The reason for this is various documentation from the years around 1200, where there are references to games with clubs and balls. There are also such references in ancient Egypt and ancient Rome. Therefore, the origin of this sport is very controversial, but in general, the Scottish people are counted as the inventors.
Fashion and golf: does that go together?
The sport is generally considered very elegant, yet the players, counted as very poorly dressed athletes. At that time, golfers in Scotland and England had to fight against the elements, focusing on protection from water and wind. Therefore, the clothing consisted of kilts and leather. Over the years, fashion continued to evolve. The movie comedy “Caddyshack” in the 80s had a great influence on the golf world. Today, materials are used that block UV rays, are insect repellent, cooling and can be worn like a skin.
Prominent golfers
Among many celebrities are passionate golfers. Actors such as Sean Connery, Kevin Costner, Cameron Diaz, David Hasselhoff and Will Smith share a passion for golf. In the music industry, golf is also a respected sport. Tim Bendzko, Justin Timberlake and Howard Carpendale like to put themselves on the golf course. Footballers like Thomas Müller, Franz Beckenbauer, Michael Ballack and Uli Hoeneß also like to use a club to hit the ball into the hole.
3 Golfer Hotspots
Here you will find the three golfing hotspots worldwide:
- St. Andrews in Scotland
- Pebble Beach Golf Links in California
- Son Vida Golf in Mallorca
St. Andrews in Scotland: Back to the Origin
One of the most popular golf hotspots is St. Andrews in Scotland.
California in the USA: Tropical climate on the green
Besides St. Andrews very popular with golfers, professionals and stars is the Pebble Beach Golf Links in California.
Mallorca: Besides party also golf
Last but not least, Son Vida Golf in Mallorca.