Global revenues in women’s elite sports will reach at least $2.35 billion in 2025, said Deloitte in its latest forecast. This follows revenues in 2024 surpassing original predictions of $1.28 billion, to hit $1.88 billion. Overall, revenues in women’s elite sports are predicted to have risen by 240 percent in four years, with Deloitte valuing the market at $692 million in 2022.
In 2024, commercial revenues, which included sponsorships, partnerships, merchandising sales and pre-season tour income, surpassed $1 billion for the first time, making up 55 percent of women’s sports revenues.
In 2025, commercial income is expected to continue representing the largest share of revenue across women’s sports as organizations generate greater brand recognition and interest, as well as more lucrative contracts. Deloitte’s projections also show a significant rise in broadcast and matchday revenues.
Basketball and football remain highest revenue-generating sports
The two highest revenue-generating sports remain unchanged, with basketball and football projected to generate the biggest revenues in 2025 at $1.03 billion and $820 million, respectively.
Basketball is on track to become the leading revenue-generating women’s sport globally as the sport benefits from new star athletes boosting matchday attendances, merchandising sales and investment into facilities.
While global women’s football revenues are predicted to rise from $740 million in 2024 to $820 million in 2025, women’s basketball revenues are expected to jump from $710 million to $1.03 billion.
“The growth of women’s sport has continued to exceed expectations as various competitions, leagues, clubs and athletes generate significant returns, despite limited resources. Crucially, the industry is moving beyond short-sighted metrics to focus on evolving structures and legacy programs through enhanced investment and bold action,” stated Jennifer Haskel, knowledge and insights lead in the Deloitte Sports Business Group.
North America, Europe to continue leading growth
North America and Europe are predicted to continue as the biggest revenue-generating women’s sports markets, but Deloitte expects to see further growth, investment and professionalization across new and existing markets in the years to come. New investment structures could unlock further investment opportunities and dedicated resources for elite women’s sports brands and businesses to further grow commercial returns.
“In 2025 and beyond, the challenge will be for the sports industry, brand partners and investors to do things differently. This will allow them to better understand the opportunities in the market and to capitalize on the current growth trajectory of women’s sports and create an ecosystem where women’s sports can thrive,” added Haskel.
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Major events to generate significant revenues
Major events and global competitions are also expected to generate significant revenues, by igniting a long-term passion for women’s sports with new fans. The 2025 Rugby Women’s World Cup, to be held in the UK, has already sold a record number of tickets, while the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup will be held in Brazil for the first time, aiming to further unlock an emerging market for women’s football.
“Major events are increasing visibility and participation across many sports and geographies, but deliberate action needs to be taken after these big moments to drive domestic success for leagues and clubs. It is no longer enough to just host an event – organizers must be bold and think of new ways to engage fans and drive participation even after the champion is crowned,” added Haskel.
