Mumbai: In a significant moment for Indian sports, Capri Sports Foundation’s ‘The Sports Women Huddle’ witnessed the unveiling of a first-of-its-kind report titled “Women’s Sports in India: Podium to Profit – A Story in the Making”, developed in collaboration with KPMG Sports Advisory.
The report offers a comprehensive look at the rapidly evolving commercial ecosystem of women’s sports in India — covering key insights across viewership, brand partnerships, sponsorship, and social impact. It highlights the growing influence of leagues like the Women’s Premier League (WPL), the surge in digital fan engagement, and the increased interest from brands and investors.
The event was graced by sporting icons Sania Mirza, PV Sindhu, Deepa Malik, and Atiqa Mir, who reflected on their journeys and the future of women’s sports in India. The evening was a powerful celebration of resilience, excellence, and change, marking the shift from recognition to rightful representation for women in sports.
Key Findings from the Report Include:
- WPL viewership grew 150% in just one year
- Women athletes attract $63 million in brand investments
- 44% of India’s gaming audience now comprises female fans
- 10x growth in social media conversations around women’s sports
- Projected commercial value of women’s sports by 2030: $900 million
Speaking at the launch, Jinisha Sharma, Director, Capri Sports, shared, “This report is deeply personal, for every young girl who dared to dream, and every woman who fought for a place on the field. Women’s sports in India isn’t a quiet movement but a powerful revolution that has made people sit up and take note. The report isn’t just a presentation of data, but also a vision of equity, inspiration, and immense potential. I urge every brand, investor, and changemaker to see this not just as an opportunity, but as a responsibility. Because when we invest in women’s sports, we invest in a future where every athlete can rise.”
Tennis icon Sania Mirza added, “It’s the belief in female athletes that needs to go a long way. So, I wish there was one secret to it. There isn’t. But I definitely think the media, TV, a lot of corporate sponsors, people like us (former and current senior athletes) trying to put things together for the future of this country in different sports, and mentorship. I think that’s something that will make a difference.”
Olympic medallist PV Sindhu emphasized the importance of self-belief, “As female athletes, we need to know that we can do anything and we can achieve everything. And I think we need to be proud of ourselves. I think we ourselves need to have that belief that we can achieve anything and we can go out there and be on the world map.”
Kala Anand, Director, Sports Advisory, KPMG in India, said, “Women’s sports is not just progressing, it is rewriting the rule book in terms of engagement, commerce, and culture. At KPMG, we are proud to have collaborated with the Capri Sports Foundation on a project that demonstrates the commercial viability, fan engagement, and strategic potential of women in sports in the future. We hope this report becomes a catalyst for deeper investments, broader media attention, and transformative impact across the industry.”
