London (AFP) – Global revenues for women’s elite sport are on track to top $2 billion in 2025, with commercial appeal at an all-time high, according to financial experts Deloitte. The company said Tuesday that the combination of matchday, commercial, and broadcast income would push revenues to $2.35 billion (2.15 billion euros) worldwide, up from $1.88 billion in 2024. That would represent a 240 percent rise in four years. Deloitte valued the 2022 market at $692 million.
Jennifer Haskel of the Deloitte Sports Business Group said: “The commercial appeal of women’s sports and its athletes has never been higher, as the sector continues to shine on the global stage.” She added: “The growth of women’s sport has continued to exceed expectations as various competitions, leagues, clubs, and athletes generate significant returns despite limited resources.” Crucially, the industry is moving beyond short-sighted metrics to focus on evolving structures and legacy programmes through enhanced investment and bold action.
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The two highest revenue-generating sports are basketball and football. Deloitte said the 2025 Women’s Rugby World Cup, being held in England, had already sold a record number of tickets, and the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil would aim to tap into an emerging market. “Major events are increasing visibility and participation but deliberate action needs to be taken after these big moments to drive domestic success for leagues and clubs,” said Haskell. “It is no longer enough to just host an event — organisers must be bold and think of new ways to engage fans and drive participation even after the champion is crowned.”
© 2024 AFP
