
The year 2025 has been a game-changer for women’s sports, with groundbreaking achievements, historic events, and major strides toward gender equality in athletics. From record-breaking performances to the launch of new leagues and tournaments, women’s sports have captured global attention like never before. Let’s take a look at some of the defining moments of the year.
London Takes Center Stage
London has cemented its reputation as a global hub for women’s sports, hosting a series of high-profile events across multiple disciplines.
One of the biggest highlights is the Women’s Rugby World Cup Final at Twickenham Stadium on September 27. With over 220,000 tickets already sold, this tournament is on track to be the most well-attended in women’s rugby history. The final is expected to set a new attendance record, surpassing the 58,498 spectators who watched England take on France in 2023. Sarah Massey, Managing Director of the Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025, expressed her excitement, saying the competition will “capture hearts and headlines globally.”
Tennis fans are in for a treat as well. After more than 50 years, women’s tennis returns to Queen’s Club with a brand-new WTA 500 event starting June 9, just ahead of Wimbledon.
Cricket lovers can look forward to England’s women taking on India in a T20 international at The Oval on July 4, followed by a one-day international at Lord’s on July 19. The Vitality Blast Women’s Finals Day will also make history at The Oval on July 27.
In football, the England Lionesses will face Spain in a highly anticipated rematch of the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup Final at Wembley Stadium on February 26. Wembley will also host the Adobe Women’s FA Cup Final on May 18.
Reflecting on this incredible lineup, London Mayor Sadiq Khan called the city the “undisputed global capital for women’s sport in 2025.”
A New Era for Women’s Basketball
In the U.S., a groundbreaking new basketball league called “Unrivaled” has taken center stage. Co-founded by WNBA stars Napheesa Collier and Breanna Stewart, this innovative 3-on-3 league has created a buzz among fans and players alike.
With a fast-paced format, unique rules, and the Elam Ending style of play, Unrivaled is changing how women’s basketball is experienced. Games are played at the Wayfair Arena in Medley, Florida, which seats 850 fans, creating an intimate yet electric atmosphere. The league has secured exclusive media rights with TNT Sports and partnerships with major brands, making it a major step forward for women’s professional basketball.
More than just a league, Unrivaled offers top-tier training, development opportunities, and a festival-like game experience, reinforcing its commitment to equity and innovation in women’s sports.
Major Transfers in Women’s Soccer
The world of women’s soccer has seen some record-breaking transfers this year:
These high-profile moves reflect the growing financial power and international appeal of women’s soccer.
- Orlando Pride’s Adriana made headlines by moving to Al Qadsiah in Saudi Arabia for a record-breaking $500,000.
- Chelsea signed Keira Walsh from Barcelona for €550,000.
- Arsenal secured Chloe Kelly on loan from Manchester City.
- Naomi Girma moved from San Diego Wave to Chelsea for an impressive $1.1 million.
- Jenna Nighswonger transferred from NJ/NY Gotham FC to Arsenal.
These high-profile moves reflect the growing financial power and international appeal of women’s soccer.
Support for Displaced Female Athletes
A major step toward inclusivity in women’s sports came this year with the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) launching a refugee fund to support Afghanistan’s exiled women cricketers.
With £1 million in funding, the initiative provides safe training facilities, education, and development opportunities for these athletes, who lost their right to play after the Taliban regained power in 2021. While Afghanistan’s men’s team continues to receive ICC funding, the women’s team remains unfunded and unsanctioned—making this initiative all the more critical.
Media Coverage Reaches New Heights
Women’s sports are finally getting the media attention they deserve.
TG4, the Irish-language broadcaster, has expanded its partnership with the Football Association of Ireland, increasing coverage of the Women’s National League (WNL). In 2025, the network will broadcast 13 matches from the Airtricity Women’s Premier Division, along with the All-Island Cup Final.
This follows a 70% rise in viewership in 2024, signaling growing audience interest and demand for more coverage.
Collegiate Sports: Breaking Barriers
At the collegiate level, teams are making history:
- The TCU Women’s Basketball Team is having a landmark season, ranked 9th in the AP Poll and 10th in the NCAA NET rankings. With All-American candidates leading the charge, TCU is expected to be a major contender in the NCAA tournament.
- In gymnastics, the Missouri Tigers went head-to-head with LSU, the reigning national champions, in a thrilling meet in January. Jocelyn Moore and Amari Celestine stood out for Missouri, while Aleah Finnegan and Haleigh Bryant shined for LSU
Trailblazing Athletes
Some athletes have made an extraordinary impact this year, none more so than Caitlin Clark from the University of Iowa. Her dominance in women’s basketball has shattered attendance records, proving that women’s sports can draw massive crowds and attention.
Challenges and the Road Ahead
While 2025 has been a turning point, challenges remain. Pay disparities, media representation, and funding gaps still exist, and continued advocacy is crucial to push women’s sports forward.
Athletes are using their platforms to fight for change. Many are championing pay equity, representation, and better opportunities, showing that the battle for gender equality in sports is far from over.
Sponsorship and Investment
This year has seen unprecedented financial investment in women’s sports. More brands and organizations are stepping up, providing sponsorship deals and financial backing that are crucial for growth.
Conclusion
The progress made in 2025 marks a transformative period for women’s sports. With increased participation, historic achievements, and stronger media coverage, the momentum is undeniable. But the journey doesn’t stop here—continued advocacy and investment are essential to ensuring the future of women’s sports is even brighter.
Stay tuned on ChakDeBharat for more sports updates.