The digital transformation of golf: Comparing virtual and traditional golf in terms of participation constraints

This study aims to examine virtual golf applications in comparison with traditional golf in the context of leisure constraints. As a product of the integration of digital technologies into the field of sports, virtual golf offers the potential to reduce time, cost, and environmental constraints associated with traditional outdoor golf. In this regard, perceptions of leisure constraints between virtual and traditional golf participation were compared using data collected from individuals interested in golf in Türkiye. A quantitative research design was adopted, and data were gathered through a convenience sampling method. Descriptive statistics, Wilcoxon signed-rank test, and Spearman's correlation coefficient were used for data analysis. Findings revealed that virtual golf is more advantageous than traditional golf in terms of reducing constraints related to time, cost, and weather conditions. According to the Wilcoxon signed-rank test, significant differences were found in the dimensions of time (Z = -4.137, p < .001), skill (Z = -3.885, p < .001), confidence (Z = -2.561, p = .010), cost (Z = -4.041, p < .001), and weather (Z = -5.535, p < .001). These results indicate that virtual golf alleviates certain leisure constraints more effectively than outdoor golf. Overall, the findings suggest that virtual golf holds strong potential to reach wider audiences within the scope of digital sports and recreational activities. Keywords: Virtual golf, traditional golf, leisure constraints, accessibility, digital sports.