NWSL on ESPN Sees Record-Breaking 61% Viewership Growth in 2025

NWSL on ESPN continues to shatter expectations, posting a dramatic 61% increase in average regular season viewership for 2025 compared to the previous year. According to Nielsen’s Big Data + Panel, the league’s matches across ABC, ESPN, ESPN2, ESPN+, Disney+, and ESPN Deportes drew an average audience of 228,000, up from 141,000 during the NWSL’s debut season on ESPN platforms in 2024. This surge in numbers cements the NWSL’s position as one of the fastest-growing women’s sports leagues in the United States.

NWSL on ESPN Achieves Unprecedented Growth

The NWSL on ESPN is not only attracting a larger English-speaking audience, but Spanish-language broadcasts have skyrocketed as well, seeing a remarkable 109% increase over 2024 figures. This impressive leap underscores the league’s expanding appeal and growing multicultural fan base.

Broadcast and Sponsorship Partnerships Fuel Momentum

A robust partnership with presenting sponsor Ally has amplified NWSL’s presence on major platforms. By maintaining consistent visibility on television and streaming services, the league has effectively tapped into the larger trend of rising women’s sports viewership across ESPN’s ecosystem. Notably, the NWSL joins the WNBA and NCAA Women’s Basketball in setting new ratings benchmarks this year.

Expanded NWSL Playoffs Coverage on ESPN

As the 2025 postseason began, ESPN ramped up coverage with a special edition of “Fútbol W,” its dedicated women’s soccer studio show. Hosted by Cristina Alexander and featuring insights from former USWNT star Ali Krieger, the broadcast included an exclusive interview with Portland Thorns midfielder Olivia Moultrie ahead of her team’s pivotal quarterfinal match against San Diego Wave.

Quarterfinal Drama Highlights League’s Competitiveness

The NWSL on ESPN delivered thrilling quarterfinal action, with parity and unpredictability on full display. The top-seeded Kansas City Current (21-3-2) suffered a historic upset, losing to No. 8 seed NJ/NY Gotham FC (9-8-9)—the first time an eighth seed has advanced in NWSL playoff history. Three of four matches were decided by a single goal or extended into extra time, underlining the league’s competitive balance. The stage is now set for an intriguing semifinal round, building anticipation for the 2025 NWSL Championship.

Viewership Surge Reflects Changing Landscape for Women’s Sports

The unprecedented NWSL on ESPN viewership gains align with a broader shift in sports media. ESPN’s ongoing investment in women’s sports and innovative broadcasting approaches have helped elevate the league’s profile. Playoff audiences are expected to surpass even these record-setting regular season numbers as excitement builds for the championship showdown on November 23.

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Opinion: A Defining Moment for Women’s Football

This year’s NWSL on ESPN viewership surge is more than just a ratings story—it represents a turning point for women’s football in America. The league’s ability to draw diverse audiences and produce highly competitive matches is a testament to the sport’s growing influence. If this trajectory continues, women’s football will soon command the attention, investment, and respect it long deserves.