Women’s elite sport is set to surpass US$3 billion in global revenues in 2026 for the first time, according to new figures from Deloitte. The forecast, outlined in its latest report Game changers: Unlocking the potential of women’s sports, represents a 25% increase on the US$2.4 billion generated in 2025.
Between 2022 and 2025, revenues grew by 248%. Based on current projections, that figure is expected to reach 340% growth between 2022 and 2026.
Deloitte’s analysis is based on three primary revenue streams: matchday, broadcast and commercial. Commercial revenue, including sponsorships, partnerships and merchandising, is expected to remain the largest contributor, accounting for 45% of total revenues in 2026. While broadly consistent with 2025 (46%), the category is forecast to grow in absolute terms by more than US$250 million.
Broadcast revenue is projected to make up 25% of total revenues, reaching approximately US$765 million in 2026, up from a 23% share in 2025. The expansion of dedicated platforms is contributing to this growth. Initiatives such as the All Women’s Sports Network (AWSN), a global platform focused exclusively on women’s sport, have secured licensing agreements with leagues including the SAFF Women’s Premier League to broadcast matches and expand visibility in key markets.
Matchday revenue is expected to account for 30% (US$911 million), a slight decrease in percentage share from 31% in 2025, but an increase of more than US$163 million in absolute terms.
Jennifer Haskel, knowledge and insights lead in Deloitte’s Sports Business Group, said: “The global women’s sports market is undergoing a profound transformation, attracting new audiences and creating a powerful, unique identity. Surpassing the three-billion-dollar mark in 2026 would be a phenomenal achievement and would cement women’s sport firmly in the spotlight.
“However, it is important to recognise that it is still early days. Building a sustainable cultural and economic identity requires strategic investment, patience, and innovation. The industry’s enduring success will be built on diligently collecting data, analysing its impact, and making corrections driven by these learnings.”
By sport, football and basketball are expected to remain the top revenue-generating women’s sports globally in 2026, with each accounting for 35% of total revenues. Football’s growth is being supported by continued professionalisation and structural changes, including the development of independent leagues and increased investment in emerging markets across the Middle East and Africa.
Regional indicators also point to rising engagement. In Saudi Arabia, 44% of respondents report following the SAFF Women’s Premier League, according to a 2024 Women’s Football Survey conducted by NEOM in partnership with the Asian Football Confederation.
Event-driven growth continues to translate into attendance gains. At the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships, organisers reported a 48% increase in ticket sales in 2026, attributed in part to the participation of Alex Eala.
At the top end of the commercial market, the Women’s Tennis Association launched a new 10-year partnership with Mercedes-Benz, reportedly valued at US$500 million. The partnership debuted at the Mubadala Abu Dhabi Open in 2026.
Deloitte also highlighted the role of major events in driving growth. Brazil is set to host the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup, the first time the tournament will take place in South America, signalling continued geographic expansion and long-term growth opportunities for the women’s game.
Haskel added: “Major sporting events are proving to be unparalleled catalysts for women’s sport globally. We saw the power of this in 2025 at the Rugby and Cricket World Cups, which not only showcased elite talent, but vividly illustrated how strategic investment, both on and off the field, can ignite a new generation of athletes and fans.
“The convergence of talent development, passionate fandom, and strategic investment is propelling the industry into an exciting era of growth. Clubs, leagues, and competitions are not just recognising their profound cultural impact, they are actively creating a new generation of fans, eager to elevate the game to new heights.”
To read the full report, visit Deloitte.
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