CAPRI SPORTS FOUNDATION, in collaboration with KPMG Sports Advisory, has launched a comprehensive report titled ‘Women’s Sports in India: Podium to Profit – A Story in the Making’. The report offers an in-depth exploration of the women’s sports ecosystem in India, focusing on commercial viability, the rise of women’s leagues, and the growing influence of female athletes on social media.
The report shines a spotlight on various critical aspects, including key growth drivers, audience demographics, social and digital media impact, strategic investments, and future projections. It also outlines actionable recommendations for all stakeholders invested in the development of women’s sport in the country.
Some key highlights from the report:
* WPL viewership up 150% in just one year
* Women athletes now attract $63 million in brand investments
* Female fans account for 44% of India’s gaming audience
* Social media conversations around women’s sports have grown 10x
* Projected commercial value by 2030: $900 million
The launch event brought together some of India’s most iconic female sports personalities, including Sania Mirza, PV Sindhu, Dr. Deepa Malik, and emerging talent Atiqa Mir — in a panel moderated by sports journalist Sharda Ugra. Sharing their personal journeys, the athletes reflected on the evolution of women’s sport in India and the responsibility of inspiring the next generation of athletes. The event celebrated the progress made so far and set an ambitious tone for accelerating participation and visibility of women in sport.
Capri Sports director Jinisha Sharma said, “This report is deeply personal, for every young girl who dared to dream, and every woman who fought for a place on the field. Women’s sports in India isn’t a quiet movement but a powerful revolution, that has made people sit up and take note. The report isn’t just a presentation of data, but also a vision of equity, inspiration, and immense potential. I urge every brand, investor, and changemaker to see this not just as an opportunity, but as a responsibility. Because when we invest in women’s sports, we invest in a future where every athlete can rise.”
Tennis icon Sania Mirza said, “It’s the belief in female athletes that needs to go a long way. So, I wish there was one secret to it. There isn’t. But I definitely think media, TV, a lot of corporate sponsors, people like us (former and current senior athletes) trying to put things together for the future of this country in different sports, and mentorship. I think that’s something that will make a difference.”
Two-time Olympic medallist PV Sindhu added, “As female athletes, we need to know that we can do anything and we can achieve everything. And I think we need to be proud of our ourselves. I think we ourselves need to have that belief that we can achieve anything and we can go out there and be on the world map.”
KPMG director sports advisory Kala Anand said, “Women’s sports is not just progressing, it is rewriting the rule book in terms of engagement, commerce, and culture. At KPMG, we are proud to have collaborated with the Capri Sports Foundation on a project that demonstrates the commercial viability, fan engagement, and strategic potential of women in sports in the future. We hope this report becomes a catalyst for deeper investments, broader media attention, and transformative impact across the industry.”
