Golf's Big Bet on Tech: A $780M Push for the Future

Golf is changing fast, and big money is backing it. GameAbove Sports just put a huge $780 million into PLATFORM Golf. Why? Because indoor golf simulators are getting popular, but the rules aren't clear. No one knows how to score fairly or keep track of competitions. PLATFORM Golf wants to fix that. GameAbove Sports has been around for a while. They've invested in golf courses, worked with Golf Traveller, and supported college programs. Now, they're betting big on tech to make off-course golf better. More people are using simulators, especially when the weather is bad. This investment is all about making sure those games are fair and fun. PLATFORM Golf has some cool tech. Their Slope Simulation Gateway (SSG) mimics real golf. It checks putting, full swings, and even uneven lies. It gives official handicaps and keeps track of performance. This could be a game-changer for off-course golf. GameAbove Sports isn't just throwing money around. They have a big network of golf courses, school ties, and travel partners. Eastern Michigan University might be the first to use this tech fully. The goal? Make off-course golf as real and competitive as playing on a course. But not everyone is betting on tech. Callaway, a big golf equipment company, just sold most of Topgolf. They're ending a 20-year partnership. Topgolf is a fun, social golf brand. Callaway bought it in 2020 but now wants to focus on making golf gear. Callaway will keep a small part of Topgolf but sell most to a private equity firm. They'll get about $770 million from the sale. The CEO says it's good for everyone. But will it be? Only time will tell. Golf is changing. Some are betting on tech, others on fun. One thing's clear: the game is evolving, and big money is backing it.