Introduction to Women’s Sport
Thursday 02 October 2025 4:01 pm | Updated: Thursday 02 October 2025 4:02 pm
Participation numbers in women’s sport are soaring as global success inspires the next generation of athletes.
More women are playing football, rugby, netball, hockey, and cricket than in 2023, with big moments in women’s sport cited as key factors in getting people active.
The findings, from Royal London, come a week after England’s Red Roses lifted the Women’s Rugby World Cup and just months after England’s Lionesses triumphed in their defense of the Euros in Switzerland.
The Women’s Cricket World Cup is currently taking place in India, while the appetite to watch women’s sport across the nation remains high.
Women’s Sport Boom
The research suggests that just one per cent of women in the United Kingdom participated in rugby in 2023, versus 11 per cent now.
Likewise, nearly a quarter of women in the 25-34 age group are playing rugby now, with that number remaining strong – at 14 per cent – for those aged 35-44.
Royal London’s chief marketing officer Susie Logan says the findings lead to the conclusion that it is “inspiring to see the growing momentum behind women’s sport”.
The jump in participation comes after the announcement of an inaugural women’s British and Irish Lions tour to New Zealand, set to launch in 2027.
Increasing Participation
Although concerns remain surrounding how England-heavy the team will be, Royal London is a key backer of the project alongside the likes of Howden.
“For over 130 years,” Logan continues, “the Lions have been represented solely by a men’s team, so the creation of the women’s team marks a truly historic milestone, not just for women’s rugby, but for women’s sport more broadly.
“While progress at the elite level is encouraging, our research shows there’s still much to do to increase participation among women and girls. That’s why we’re also investing in the grassroots, we’re committed to nurturing the next generation of talent and helping to shape the future of women’s rugby.”
Benefits of Women’s Sport
Women’s sport has numerous benefits, including promoting physical activity, improving mental health, and providing role models for young girls and women.
The growth of women’s sport also has the potential to increase participation and engagement in sports, leading to a more active and healthy population.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the participation numbers in women’s sport are soaring, with global success inspiring the next generation of athletes.
The growth of women’s sport has the potential to increase participation and engagement in sports, leading to a more active and healthy population.
It is essential to continue investing in the grassroots and nurturing the next generation of talent to shape the future of women’s sport.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the current state of women’s sport in the UK?
A: The current state of women’s sport in the UK is booming, with participation numbers soaring and global success inspiring the next generation of athletes.
Q: What are the benefits of women’s sport?
A: The benefits of women’s sport include promoting physical activity, improving mental health, and providing role models for young girls and women.
Q: How can we increase participation in women’s sport?
A: We can increase participation in women’s sport by investing in the grassroots, nurturing the next generation of talent, and providing opportunities for women and girls to engage in sports.
Q: What is the significance of the women’s British and Irish Lions tour to New Zealand?
A: The women’s British and Irish Lions tour to New Zealand marks a historic milestone for women’s rugby and women’s sport more broadly, providing a platform for women’s sport to grow and develop.
