Revenue from elite women’s sports globally is set to be in excess of $2 billion in 2025, according to leading professional services firm, Deloitte.
Revenue surpassed the $1 billion mark for the very first time last year and a new report from Deloitte is predicting at least $2.35 billion in matchday, broadcast and commercial revenue for the current year.
The latest report predicts that Basketball will overtake football as the highest revenue-generating sport, taking 44% with football taking 35%.
Commercial revenue from sponsorships, partnerships, and merchandising among others is expected to represent the largest share of revenue at 54% while broadcast revenues will contribute 25% and matchday revenues provide the remaining 21%.
Speaking about the latest report, Jennifer Haskel, knowledge and insight lead of the Deloitte Sports Business Group, said: “The growth of women’s sport has continued to exceed expectations as various competitions, leagues, clubs and athletes generate significant returns, despite limited resources.
“Women’s sport is rewriting the playbook and challenging traditional norms to redefine the future of the industry.”
She added: “Major events are increasing visibility and participation across many sports and geographies, but deliberate actions need 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 – organisers must be bold and think of new ways to engage fans and drive participation even after the champion is crowned.
“The commercial appeal of women’s sports and its athletes has never been higher, as the sector continues to shine on the global stage.
“Increasing strategic investment is more important than ever to drive a professional global landscape and create an engaging industry for generations to come. It is crucial for women’s sport organisations to implement the right structures, develop a clear plan for investment, and define a long-term vision for their place within a rapidly evolving global industry.”
Despite the projected growth by Deloitte, world football governing body FIFA, in a report highlighted the stark disparity in wages and sponsorship in men’s and women’s football, with the average annual salary of women being $10, 900.
