Global revenues in women’s elite sports are projected to surpass $2.35 billion in 2025, consultancy major Deloitte Global declared on Tuesday.
According to Deloitte Global’s report, “Beyond the Billion-dollar Barrier: Charting the Next Phase of Growth”, revenues in 2024 surpassed original predictions of $1.28bn, hitting $1.88bn.
Deloitte Global’s analysis includes commercial, broadcast, and matchday revenue.
According to Deloitte Global’s analysis, in 2025, commercial revenue is predicted to remain the largest global revenue driver across women’s sports, totaling $1.26bn or a 54% share of revenue, as increasing brand recognition, rising fan engagement, and more lucrative sponsorship deals fuel the industry’s expansion. The study predicts a significant rise in broadcast ($590 million) and matchday revenues ($500m), comprising 25% and 21% share of revenue, respectively.
The report further notes that basketball and soccer are anticipated to remain the top revenue-generating women’s sports globally in 2025, with basketball projected to lead at $1.03bn (44%), followed by soccer at $820m (35%). Basketball’s rise to the top is expected to be driven by emerging star athletes, surging matchday attendance, increased merchandising sales, and expanded investment into facilities, solidifying its position as the highest-earning women’s sport globally.
*Basketball and soccer are anticipated to remain the top revenue-generating women’s sports globally in 2025 with basketball projected to lead at $1.03bn (44%), followed by soccer at $820m (35%). Basketball’s rise to the top is expected to be driven by emerging star athletes, surging matchday attendance, increased merchandising sales, and expanded investment into facilities, solidifying its position as the highest-earning women’s sport globally.
Beyond soccer and basketball, new sports are gaining traction. Cricket, rugby, and volleyball are attracting investment, signaling broader commercial opportunities worldwide.
It should come as no surprise that North America “leads the charge” in global growth. In 2024, 56% of global revenue came from North America, yet Europe, Asia Pacific, and other markets are also expanding rapidly.
Why this matters
Leagues, brands, and investors aim to scale women’s sports into a global powerhouse. Women’s global sports revenues nearly doubled from 2023 to 2024, and the focus is now on long-term sustainability. Beyond financial growth, women’s sports are elevating women athletes as elite competitors, inspiring new generations of fans, and redefining the future of sports. Additionally, the commercial landscape is evolving, with new investment models, venture capital, and brand partnerships fueling transformation. Future success depends on dedicated facilities, innovative media strategies, and expanded commercial partnerships that push beyond traditional sponsorships.
On the reports findings, Pete Giorgio, Global Sports practice leader, Deloitte Global, noted: “We’re witnessing a transformational movement in women’s sports — what was once seen as potential is now a thriving, billion-dollar industry. With revenues expected to surpass the $2 billion mark this year, the conversation is no longer about proving value but about scaling for the future. The challenge now is to sustain this momentum and translate it into long-term success, with the appropriate investment, infrastructure, and opportunities to keep women’s sports growing on a global stage.”
Beyond the breakthrough: Building a sustainable future for women’s sports
In 2025, the industry is expected to see continued revenue increases, professionalization, and strategic shifts that will help shape its long-term future. As women’s sports continue to evolve, the next phase of growth is expected to be defined by strategic investment, market expansion, and the long-term sustainability of professional leagues and competitions.
*North America ($1.39bn, 59%) and Europe ($420m, 18%) are predicted to remain the largest revenue-generating markets, but further growth and investment are expected across emerging regions.
*New investment structures, such as women’s sports teams operating as standalone entities, could attract greater investment, dedicated resources, and enhanced commercial prowess.
*Major global events are expected to fuel expansion, with host countries attracting new fans, investors, and sponsorships. The 2025 Rugby Women’s World Cup in the United Kingdom has already set ticket sales records, while the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup will be held in Brazil for the first time and introduce new commercial opportunities to an emerging soccer market.
Lara Abrash, chair, Deloitte US, said: “The immense potential of women’s sports as a catalyst for economic growth and societal impact is receiving the recognition it deserves. Now is the time to focus on sustained, long-term success through bold, collective action from fans, sponsors, organizations, and beyond. By driving sustainable growth, unlocking new commercial opportunities, and increasing investment, leagues are being strengthened and athletes are being empowered for generations to come. The future of women’s sports is bright, and its path toward success has never been clearer.”
