NWSL Viewership Soars by 61% in Landmark 2025 ESPN Season

NWSL Viewership Surges in 2025 Regular Season

NWSL viewership on ESPN platforms has experienced a dramatic upswing in the 2025 regular season, marking a milestone for women’s football in the US. According to Nielsen’s Big Data + Panel, the National Women’s Soccer League saw its average audience leap by 61 percent compared to last year, with Spanish-language broadcasts more than doubling—an astonishing 109 percent increase over 2024.

Record-Breaking Numbers Across Multiple Networks

The 17-match regular season aired across ABC, ESPN, ESPN2, ESPN+, Disney+, and ESPN Deportes drew an impressive average of 228,000 viewers per game, compared to 141,000 viewers in its debut ESPN season. This surge places the NWSL shoulder-to-shoulder with other major women’s sports, including the WNBA and NCAA Women’s Basketball, which have also enjoyed unprecedented audience growth on ESPN platforms. The partnership with presenting sponsor Ally has played a crucial role in expanding the league’s visibility, ensuring continuous coverage and engagement for both traditional and streaming audiences.

Expanded Playoff Coverage on ESPN

Building on regular-season momentum, ESPN kicked off the 2025 NWSL Playoffs on November 7 with extended coverage, including a special Fútbol W episode—ESPN’s weekly women’s soccer studio show. Hosted by Cristina Alexander and featuring insights from former USWNT star Ali Krieger, the broadcast showcased an exclusive interview with Portland Thorns midfielder Olivia Moultrie as she prepared for her team’s quarterfinal against the San Diego Wave. The expanded playoff programming is a testament to ESPN’s commitment to elevating women’s football.

Quarterfinals Highlight NWSL’s Competitive Depth

The 2025 NWSL quarterfinals treated fans to gripping matches and historic upsets, reflecting the league’s increasing competitiveness. In a stunning development, top-seeded Kansas City Current (21-3-2) were eliminated by No. 8 seed NJ/NY Gotham FC (9-8-9)—the first time an eighth seed has ever won a playoff match in NWSL history. Three of the four quarterfinal games were decided by a single goal or stretched into extra time, emphasizing the razor-thin margins and parity among the league’s top teams. Only one match ended with a two-goal advantage, setting up closely contested semifinals on the road to the 2025 NWSL Championship.

NWSL Viewership Growth Mirrors Women’s Sports Momentum

This record-breaking NWSL viewership on ESPN arrives during a watershed moment for women’s sports broadcasting. ESPN’s investments in dedicated programming and expanded coverage have proven crucial in drawing new fans and amplifying the league’s profile. Playoff audiences traditionally exceed regular season numbers, and ESPN anticipates even stronger engagement leading up to the 2025 NWSL Championship on November 23.

League Partnerships Drive Ongoing Success

The collaboration between NWSL, ESPN, and sponsors like Ally has been vital in building sustained interest and ensuring the league’s athletes receive the exposure they deserve. The strategic placement of matches and inclusion on major platforms and streaming services have made NWSL games accessible to a broader demographic, further fueling the league’s growth.

What’s Next for NWSL and Women’s Football?

With viewership surging and competition hotter than ever, the NWSL is positioned for continued expansion and influence in the global football landscape. The league’s ability to attract new audiences and elevate the quality of play bodes well for the future of women’s sports.

Opinion: NWSL’s Visibility Sets the Standard

The NWSL’s remarkable 2025 viewership growth is more than a fleeting trend; it’s proof of the league’s increasing relevance in American sports. The competitive matches and expanded coverage have captivated both longtime supporters and new fans. As the league heads into its semifinal phase, its visibility and momentum should serve as a blueprint for other sporting organizations aiming to grow their audience and impact. For ongoing coverage of the NWSL and global football, visit for more news.