top of page

⚽️ Are Women's Sports Profitable? 🏃🏾‍♀️

The profitability of women’s sports varies by sport, region, and level of competition, but generally, it has been less profitable compared to men’s sports. However, this is changing in recent years as women’s sports gain more visibility, media coverage, and investment. Here are a few points to consider:



serena williams
Serena Williams


1. Growing Popularity

Women’s sports are seeing a surge in popularity, especially with notable athletes like Serena Williams (tennis), Megan Rapinoe (soccer), and Simone Biles (gymnastics), who have made headlines globally. Events like the Women’s World Cup in soccer and the WNBA Finals have been attracting larger audiences and sponsorship deals.


2. Sponsorship & Broadcasting

Historically, women's sports have been underfunded and had less media coverage, which limited profitability. But this is starting to shift. Broadcast deals and sponsorships for leagues like the WNBA, Women's National Basketball Association, and the NWSL (National Women's Soccer League) are growing. Networks are beginning to recognize the untapped potential of women’s sports, though the investment is still not on par with men’s sports.



Sifan Hassan


3. Wage Disparities

Many women’s professional sports leagues still pay their athletes much less than their male counterparts. This is partly because the revenue generated from ticket sales, merchandise, and broadcasting rights hasn’t matched the revenue generated by men’s leagues. The WNBA, for example, generates significantly less revenue than the NBA, which impacts player salaries.


Are Women's Sports Profitable?


4. Social Movements and Advocacy

Women athletes have become more vocal about the need for equal pay and treatment, which has contributed to more attention and investment. In tennis, for example, women have equal prize money at the Grand Slam tournaments, which is a significant victory for pay equity in sports.



Jennifer King
Jennifer King


5. Media Coverage & Visibility

The profitability of women’s sports is heavily influenced by the level of media coverage. When women’s events are televised or streamed widely, viewership increases, which in turn attracts more sponsorships and fans. In the past, women’s sports didn’t receive the same media attention as men’s, but this is gradually changing, particularly with platforms like social media and digital streaming.


6. Niche Sports and Opportunities

Some niche sports like women’s surfing, snowboarding, or even esports (with increasing participation from women) are becoming profitable, largely due to growing interest, sponsorship deals, and media visibility. These can be profitable for athletes and investors when they gain traction.



While women’s sports aren't yet as profitable as men's, they are on an upward trajectory, with increasing media coverage, sponsorships, and fan interest. As more people watch, attend, and invest in these sports, they will likely continue to grow in profitability. The shift towards gender equity and recognition is definitely making a difference.


AWSN is the Home of Live Women's Sports. Check the Schedule for more!

bottom of page