Deloitte: Women's Elite Sports Exceed Expectations as Revenues Forecasted to Surpass $2.3 Billion Globally in 2025
The billion-dollar surge in women’s sports underscores a transformational movement as the industry keeps its eye on long-term growth
New York, March 18, 2025
Key takeaways
- Women’s sports are a billion-dollar industry — and growing fast. Global revenue nearly doubled from $981 million in 2023 to $1.88 billion in 2024, with $2.35 billion projected for 2025.
- Commercial revenue surpassed $1 billion globally in 2024 for the first time. This includes sponsorships, partnerships, merchandising sales, and pre-season tour income.
- North America leads the charge in global growth: 56% of 2024 global revenue came from North America, yet Europe, Asia Pacific, and other markets are also expanding rapidly.
- Beyond soccer and basketball, new sports are gaining traction. Cricket, rugby, and volleyball are attracting investment, signaling broader commercial opportunities worldwide.
Why this matters
Leagues, brands, and investors aim to scale women’s sports into a global powerhouse. According to Deloitte Global’s report, “Beyond the Billion-dollar Barrier: Charting the Next Phase of Growth,” 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.
Women’s sports surge: Projected to exceed $2.35B in 2025
Deloitte Global predicts that global revenues in women’s elite sports will reach at least $2.35 billion in 2025. This follows revenues in 2024 surpassing original predictions of $1.28 billion, hitting $1.88 billion. Deloitte Global’s analysis includes commercial, broadcast, and matchday revenue.
- In 2025, commercial revenue is predicted to remain the largest global revenue driver across women’s sports, totaling $1.26 billion or a 54% share of revenue, as increasing brand recognition, rising fan engagement, and more lucrative sponsorship deals fuel the industry’s expansion.
- Deloitte Global predicts a significant rise in broadcast ($590 million) and matchday revenues ($500 million), comprising 25% and 21% share of revenue, respectively.
- Basketball and soccer are anticipated to remain the top revenue-generating women’s sports globally in 2025 with basketball projected to lead at $1.03 billion (44%), followed by soccer at $820 million (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.
Key quote
“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.”
— Pete Giorgio, Global Sports practice leader, Deloitte Global
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 ($1.39 billion, 59%) and Europe ($420 million, 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 Kingdon 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.
Key quote
"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."
— Lara Abrash, Chair, Deloitte US
Connect with us on LinkedIn: Pete Giorgio, Lara Abrash; #womensports, #tmttrends.
About Deloitte
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