LONDON: The tremendous success of the 2023 World Cup in Australia and New Zealand has positioned women’s sports on a trajectory for substantial growth, with football leading the way.
Projections indicate that football’s revenue alone is expected to reach an impressive $555 million out of a total predicted figure of $1.28 billion in 2024.
Despite the surge in women’s football popularity, over 50% of the total revenue for women’s sports still originates from North America, underscoring the region’s dominance in the sports industry. Deloitte, a leading professional services firm, anticipates that team and league valuations will continue to rise, with several teams expected to surpass the $100 million mark in 2024.
Jennifer Haskel, insights lead for Deloitte’s Sports Business Group, commented on the remarkable growth of women’s sports globally. She highlighted the increasing commercial value of women’s sports, leading to heightened interest from investors. Importantly, women’s sports are now being recognized as a unique product distinct from men’s elite sports.
The surge in fan engagement and investor interest is creating new opportunities for clubs and leagues. This includes forging greater commercial partnerships, increasing participation, and expanding match-day experiences. As the popularity of women’s sports continues to rise, there’s an anticipation of more prime-time broadcasting slots and increased visibility on streaming platforms.
While commercial income remains a significant part of the revenue, its percentage share is decreasing due to larger broadcast deals and growing attendances on match days. The future looks promising for women’s sports, with the industry poised for further growth and recognition on the global stage.
