Record-Breaking Crowd Attends Women’s Super League Opener
The English soccer’s Women’s Super League (WSL) kicked off its new season in grand style. The opening match between Arsenal and Liverpool at the Emirates Stadium drew an impressive crowd of 54,115 – a record-breaking attendance for the WSL. This surpassed the previous record set by Arsenal themselves in September 2022 against Tottenham Hotspur. Such successes have prompted Arsenal to host five of their home league matches at the Emirates Stadium this season. Alongside the growing popularity of the WSL, the league’s revenues have also seen a significant rise.
According to a report by Deloitte, the WSL’s combined club revenues for the 2021-22 season reached an impressive £32 million ($40.2 million), representing a remarkable 60% increase from the previous season’s £20 million. This financial growth can be attributed to various factors, including the league’s expanding fan base and lucrative broadcasting deals. Broadcasting Deals and Sponsorship: The commencement of a new broadcasting deal with pay-TV giant Sky, worth a reported £8 million per season, has resulted in a substantial boost in broadcast distributions. This partnership has not only amplified the coverage of WSL matches but has also been a catalyst for the league’s increased exposure and popularity.
The WSL has also secured a new agreement with title sponsor Barclays, which will see an investment of £30 million into women’s soccer over the period between 2022 and 2025. This impressive investment is a testament to the growing recognition and support for women’s football. Conclusion: The Women’s Super League season opener between Arsenal and Liverpool showcased not only an exhilarating match on the field but also a record-breaking attendance that demonstrated the growing appeal of women’s football. With soaring revenues and significant investment, the future looks bright for the WSL. Fans can look forward to more thrilling matches, inspiring talent, and further milestones as the league continues to break barriers and captivate audiences.
