By Claire Moraa
- Women’s elite sports is expected to hit a $2.35B revenue in 2025
- Matchday, broadcast and commercial remain the highest revenue-generating categories
It’s been a long time coming but it looks like women’s sports is receiving the much-awaited recognition and commensurate investment if the recent revenue projections are anything to go by. Just last year, women’s elite sports was projected to hit a revenue of $1.28 billion but surpassed and hit $1.88 billion. And this is not just a one-hit wonder. Women’s elite sports revenue has been on a steady rise over the last four years amounting to 240%.
Why This Matters: For any industry to cross over the billion-dollar revenue benchmark is no small feat. Stakeholders and partners have been championing for increased visibility, representation and equal opportunity so it’s no surprise that it’s paying off. Women are slowly but steadily bridging the gaps as just recently, Formula 1 saw an increase in viewership and 41% of them are women. With the revenue surge, the industry has challenged the status quo. Previous traditional gender disparities in sports are being washed away and a new culture is being unveiled that there is potential in women’s sports.
The major categories that racked in the big bucks include broadcast and commercial. Merchandising didn’t have to struggle much as there was already demand, only that supply for women’s sports merch was playing catch up and it seems it did. 2025 is no different and the revenues are expected to hit new highs of $2.35 billion. An increase in revenues can lead to better opportunities, resources, and representation for female athletes, ultimately contributing to the overall advancement and empowerment of women in sports.
What’s Next: While the numbers are inspiring, there’s more to it than a few billions. It represents a transformative shift in how women’s sports are perceived, valued, and supported globally. The next steps will be pivotal in solidifying women’s place at the global sports table. This can also set a precedent to other industries struggling with representation, equity and visibility.
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