The New York Liberty pose for a photo after winning the 2024 WNBA Championship against the Minnesota Lynx during Game 5 of the 2024 WNBA Finals on October 20, 2024 at Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York. David Sherman, NBAE via Getty Images/AFP
LONDON, United Kingdom -- Global revenues for women's elite sport are on track to top $2 billion in 2025, with commercial appeal at an all-time high, according to financial experts Deloitte.
The company said Tuesday that the combination of matchday, commercial and broadcast income would push revenues to $2.35 billion (2.15 billion euros) worldwide, up from $1.88 billion in 2024.
That would represent a 240 percent rise in four years. Deloitte valued the 2022 market at $692 million.
Jennifer Haskel of the Deloitte Sports Business Group said: "The commercial appeal of women's sports and its athletes has never been higher, as the sector continues to shine on the global stage."
She added: "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 programmes through enhanced investment and bold action."
The two highest revenue-generating sports are basketball and football.
READ: Sabrina Ionescu leads unveiling of Girls Got Game courts in Bulacan
READ: How Sabrina Ionescu inspired these girls to pursue women's hoops
Deloitte said the 2025 Women's Rugby World Cup, being held in England, had already sold a record number of tickets and the 2027 FIFA Women's World Cup in Brazil would aim to tap into an emerging market.
"Major events are increasing visibility and participation but deliberate action needs to be taken after these big moments to drive domestic success for leagues and clubs," said Haskell.
"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."
© Agence France-Presse
RELATED VIDEO: