Deloitte predicts a substantial surge in the financial outlook for women’s elite sports, with a forecasted 240% increase in revenue by 2024. This significant growth is attributed to matchday, broadcast, and commercial streams, with the latter expected to contribute the lion’s share of 54% to the overall earnings in 2023.
According to Deloitte, commercial income will remain the primary revenue driver this year, accounting for over half of the total income. In contrast, broadcast and matchday revenues are projected to make up 25% and 21%, respectively, reflecting the growing value of media rights and live attendance.
Basketball and football are set to retain their positions as the top revenue generators in 2025, contributing 44% and 35%, respectively. These figures underscore the enduring popularity and commercial appeal of these sports among fans and sponsors alike.
Jennifer Haskel, the Knowledge and Insights Lead at Deloitte Sports Business Group, attributes the remarkable growth of women’s sports to the significant returns generated by various competitions, leagues, clubs, and athletes, despite operating with limited resources. She emphasizes that the key to continued success lies in adopting innovative strategies and understanding market opportunities.
Looking ahead, Haskel highlights the upcoming Rugby Women’s World Cup in England and the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil as significant revenue-generating events. She stresses the importance of strategic investment to foster a thriving, professional global landscape for women’s sports, ensuring its longevity and engagement for future generations.
To maximize the potential of this investment, women’s sports organizations are encouraged to establish robust structures, formulate clear investment plans, and articulate their long-term vision within the dynamic global sports industry. By doing so, they can effectively capitalize on the current growth trajectory and create a sustainable ecosystem for women’s sports to flourish.
