1. Football

Football is by far the most popular sport in the Netherlands. The Koninklijke Nederlandse Voetbalbond (KNVB, Royal Dutch Football Association) has over 1.2 million members. Almost every village or neighbourhood has a football club, making it accessible to people of all ages.

Clubs often have both competitive teams and recreational squads, and many organise tournaments and events throughout the year. Club life is important: besides training and matches, members often gather in the clubhouse. Football is not only widely practised but also a social activity that brings people together.

These are the top 3 football clubs in the Netherlands.

Ajax
Ajax is based in Amsterdam. The greatest player in Ajax’s history is Johan Cruijff, after whom the club’s stadium, the Johan Cruijff Arena, is named. Ajax has won the European Cup / Champions League 4 times.

Feyenoord
Feyenoord is based in Rotterdam. A legendary player in Feyenoord’s history is Ruud Gullit, who was famous for his dreadlocks and mustache. Gullit has also been extremely important for the Netherlands national team. Feyenoord has won the European Cup / Champions League 1 time.

PSV
PSV is based in Eindhoven. A famous player in PSV’s history is Arjen Robben, one of the best Dutch attackers ever, known for his unique cut-insides and his powerful left foot. PSV has won the European Cup / Champions League 1 time.

2. Tennis

With around 600,000 members, tennis is the second largest club sport. The Koninklijke Nederlandse Lawn Tennis Bond (KNLTB, Royal Dutch Lawn Tennis Association) operates across the country, and almost every city has several tennis parks. Tennis is attractive because it can be played both recreationally and competitively. Many clubs host internal leagues, tournaments, and social events.

It is common to enjoy a drink in the clubhouse after a match, showing that the social side is just as important as the sport itself. Padel, a fast-growing racket sport under the tennis association, is also gaining popularity. More and more clubs are adding padel courts, adding variety and appeal.

3. Sport Fishing

Sport fishing may seem like an unexpected choice, but with over 570,000 members, it is highly popular. Both dedicated anglers and casual enthusiasts join Sportvisserij Nederland, the national angling federation. The Netherlands’ many rivers, canals, and lakes provide plenty of fishing opportunities.

Membership in an angling club is often required to fish legally. It also provides access to specific waters and organised events. Sport fishing is known for being a relaxing and peaceful activity, requiring minimal language or communication skills, making it accessible to everyone.

4. Golf

Golf has a strong presence in the Netherlands, with about 400,000 members. The Nederlandse Golf Federatie (NGF, Dutch Golf Federation) oversees numerous courses nationwide. Golf clubs are known for their facilities, from practice areas to clubhouses where members can meet.

The sport has international appeal, with many clubs hosting players from different countries, and English is often spoken. Golf combines a sporting challenge with social interaction, and it is customary to enjoy a drink in the clubhouse after a round.

5. Gymnastics

Gymnastics, organised by the Koninklijke Nederlandse Gymnastiek Unie (KNGU, Royal Dutch Gymnastics Union), has around 300,000 members. It is a broad category, including acrogym, trampoline, jazz dance, and recreational gymnastics for children and adults.

Many Dutch children start their sports journey at a gymnastics club. Toddler and preschool classes are particularly popular and help develop motor skills. Adults can also participate through senior gymnastics or dance groups. Gymnastics is therefore an accessible sport for all ages and skill levels.

Sport for Everyone

The top five most popular club sports highlight the diversity of sporting options in the Netherlands. From football pitches to tennis parks, fishing spots to gymnastics halls, sports clubs play a central role in communities. They provide a space not only to stay active but also to meet people and become part of a community.

Alongside these club sports, there are also sports mostly practised individually. The top five are: fitness, walking, running, swimming, and cycling. Together, these lists give a clear picture of the variety of sports in the Netherlands. There is something for everyone, and there is always a club or activity nearby.