The Statistical Analysis of Golf Performance

Abstract

This paper reviews the limited published research on golf statistics, including round scores from amateur and professional golfers, in terms of understanding golf performance. The statistical analysis of golf involves using either scores (hole and round) or particular elements of the game that are thought to be indicative of success called performance indicators. The author reflects upon and extends some of the published research with some small studies he carried out over the last few years with his colleagues. The main conclusion is that the commonly collected performance indicators, such as ‘greens in regulation,’ need to be improved upon. In this regard, the ShotLink statistics, such as how close to the hole a player gets from within 100 yards, which are now collected at most US PGA tournaments using specialist distance-measuring devices, would seem to be the future of performance analysis in golf.