OUR INSIGHTS
Sports have always been more than just games—they are cultural cornerstones, reflections of society, and powerful platforms for leadership. For many of us, our connection to sports is deeply personal. Whether it’s cheering for a team because it’s a family tradition, our alma mater, or simply the pride of our city, sports shape our identities and values.
But what happens when the faces we see on the field, in the booth, or in the boardroom begin to reflect a broader spectrum of society? What happens when women—long underrepresented in the sports world—step into roles of influence, visibility, and power?
We are witnessing that transformation now.
Representation That Resonates
Ten years ago, it was rare to see women in coaching roles, executive offices, or ownership boxes. Today, women are not only present—they are thriving. From the NFL to the PGA, from Major League Baseball to the WNBA, women are making strategic decisions, calling plays, and shaping the narratives of sports.
As a fan of football, golf, and baseball, I find it deeply meaningful to see women in broadcasting roles, engaging with players, coaches, and fans with authority and insight. These women are not just reporting on the game—they are part of the game. Their presence validates the experiences of countless young girls who dream of careers in sports, and it challenges outdated notions of who belongs in these spaces.
“When you have a dream, you’ve got to grab it and never let go.”
— Abby Wambach, World Cup champion and equality advocate
Leadership That Builds Teams
Women bring unique strengths to leadership—collaboration, empathy, and a holistic view of success. In sports, these qualities translate into stronger team dynamics, inclusive cultures, and innovative strategies. Leaders like Jessica Berman, Commissioner of the NWSL, and Renie Anderson, Chief Revenue Officer of the NFL, are proving that women can drive both cultural change and commercial success.
Coaches like Jennifer King of the Washington Commanders and Alyssa Nakken of the San Francisco Giants are breaking barriers on the sidelines, while executives like Kim Ng, the first female GM in MLB history, are making history in the front office.
“Pressure is a privilege.”
— Billie Jean King, tennis legend and sports equality advocate
“Success consists of going from failure to failure without loss of enthusiasm.”
— Serena Williams, 23-time Grand Slam champion
Ownership and Opportunity
Perhaps most inspiring is the rise of women in ownership and C-suite roles. Jeanie Buss, owner of the Los Angeles Lakers, and investors like Serena Williams and Naomi Osaka are not just participating in sports—they are shaping its future.
WBC highlighted this growing opportunity in the opening panel of its 2025 Women’s Capital Summit, where women investors from major organizations such as the WNBA, USL Super League, and the NWLS focused on the intersection of sports and capital, the panel provided insights into how to navigate this emerging and dynamic industry, and spotlight the expanding opportunities for women entrepreneurs and leaders in the business of sports.
Their leadership ensures that equity, innovation, and community are part of the business model.
“I’m not the next anyone, I’m the first Maria Sharapova.”
— Maria Sharapova, tennis champion and entrepreneur
“You can’t just beat a team, you have to leave a lasting impression in their minds so they never want to see your face again.”
— Mia Hamm, soccer icon
Inspiration for the Next Generation
When women lead in sports, they do more than win games—they inspire. They show young girls that they can be coaches, analysts, owners, or CEOs. They show young boys that leadership comes in many forms. And they show all of us that sports are better when they reflect the full diversity of the world we live in.
“Never underestimate the power of dreams and the influence of the human spirit.”
— Wilma Rudolph, Olympic gold medalist and civil rights pioneer
The evolution of women in sports is not just a trend—it’s a movement. And it’s one that’s making the entire industry stronger, smarter, and more inclusive.
Editor’s Note: Learn more about WBC’s In the Arena Initiative and our community members making an impact within the business of sports.
