The five most popular women’s sports in the United States

The number of female participants has been growing steadily in sports.

The five most popular women’s sports in the United States consistently report higher participant levels. Many sport associations report estimated numbers, so the number of participants who are not registered may be much higher.

1. Soccer

Soccer is one of the most popular sports in the world with 29 million female participants. In the United States, a total of 18 million people play soccer, and women make up 40 percent of this number. Although estimates vary, most research indicates 7 to 8 million women play soccer in the U.S. The rise of soccer’s popularity can be attributed to the U.S. Women’s National Team. After the U.S. team won the 1999 FIFA Women’s World Cup, there was a spike in the number of participants. The number of women who play soccer in the U.S. has continued to grow.

2. Tennis

Tennis remains as one of the most popular sports for women in the U.S. Although the popularity of this sport occasionally ebbs and wanes, high levels of participation have remained. In the U.S., a total of 30 million people play tennis. It is estimated that women make up more than half of this number. Traditionally, tennis has been one of the sports that welcomed female participation. Since 1889, women have been a growing part of this sport.

3. Basketball

Basketball attracts a large number of female participants. However, the total number of women who play this sport is difficult to assess. Many participants are not part of clubs or registered by any associations. The WNBA has been building a steady following and gaining more recognition. This seems to be directly tied to the number of women who are playing basketball with a total estimate of about 6 million.

4. Softball

An estimated 40 million people play softball in the United States, and approximately half are women. Compared to baseball, softball is predominantly played by women. The popularity of this sport is increasing. Although it has been generally associated with younger players, senior citizens have rediscovered the sport and numbers are growing.

5. Volleyball

Volleyball is one of the most popular sports in the world. Although 800 million people play this sport globally, only an estimated 46 million play in the U.S. The popularity of volleyball makes determining an exact number of female participants difficult. Most people are not registered or part of any clubs. Approximately 40 percent of the players are female.

Lana has a B.S. degree in Biology and Chemistry. She is an avid athlete, youth coach and follows several sports.


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