The history of professional golf is deeply rooted in the development of the game itself, which began in Scotland during the Middle Ages. The modern version of the sport is available at 1xBet betting, which is a platform you can also join today.
Early forms of golf were played on natural coastal landscapes known as links, using simple wooden clubs and leather balls stuffed with feathers. By the 15th century, golf had become popular enough that King James II of Scotland attempted to ban it, fearing it distracted soldiers from archery practice. Despite this, the game continued to grow in popularity. Another thing that is quite popular is to try betting 1xBet, where you can try wagers on this sport and many others.
Professional golf emerged gradually in the 18th century as skilled players began earning money by doing 3 things:
- competing;
- teaching;
- and crafting clubs.

One of the most significant milestones was the founding of the Honourable Company of Edinburgh Golfers in 1744, which established the first known written rules of golf. Prestwick Golf Club later played a crucial role by hosting the first Open Championship in 1860, widely regarded as the oldest professional golf tournament. This event marked the formal beginning of professional golf as an organized sport.
Expanding The Sport Across The World
During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, professional golf expanded beyond Scotland and England to the United States and other parts of the world. The establishment of the Professional Golfers’ Association (PGA) of America in 1916 helped structure the sport, providing opportunities for players to compete regularly for prize money. Making a 1xBet sign up will also grant access to the betting possibilities on PGA tournaments.
Legendary figures such as Walter Hagen and Gene Sarazen elevated professional golf’s popularity through their success and charismatic personalities.
The mid-20th century is often considered a golden age of professional golf, largely due to players like Ben Hogan, Sam Snead, and later Arnold Palmer. Palmer, in particular, transformed golf into a mainstream spectator sport through television, attracting millions of fans. His rivalry with Jack Nicklaus, who went on to win a record 18 major championships, also boosted the game’s global appeal.
The emergence of Tiger Woods in the late 1990s revolutionized golf through unprecedented athleticism, global popularity, and commercial success. Today, professional golf continues to evolve, balancing tradition with innovation, while remaining one of the most respected and widely played sports in the world. You are invited to make your sign up at 1xBet so you can start betting on golf today.