NWSL Viewership Soars as Playoffs Commence

The 17-match schedule, broadcast across multiple platforms including ABC, ESPN, ESPN2, ESPN+, Disney+, and ESPN Deportes, achieved an average viewership of 228,000 (P2+). This marks a notable rise from the average of 141,000 viewers during the 2024 season, which was the NWSL’s inaugural year on ESPN.

This increase mirrors the overall growth in women’s sports viewership across ESPN’s platforms, which has also seen record-breaking audiences for the WNBA and NCAA Women’s Basketball. The league’s partnership with presenting sponsor Ally has significantly enhanced its media visibility, ensuring consistent exposure across various broadcast and streaming channels.

The 2025 NWSL Playoffs began on November 7, featuring expanded coverage that included a special edition of Fútbol W, ESPN’s weekly studio program dedicated to professional women’s soccer. Hosted by Cristina Alexander and featuring insights from former USWNT defender Ali Krieger, the show also included an exclusive interview with Portland Thorns midfielder Olivia Moultrie, who was preparing for her team’s quarterfinal match against the San Diego Wave.

The quarterfinals concluded with four teams advancing to the semifinals, showcasing several tightly contested matches that highlighted the league’s competitive balance. In a historic upset, top-seeded Kansas City Current (21-3-2) was eliminated by No. 8 seed NJ/NY Gotham FC (9-8-9), marking the first instance in league history of an eighth seed winning a playoff match.

Three of the four quarterfinal games were decided by a single goal or required extra time, with only one match concluding with a two-goal margin. These outcomes emphasize the competitive nature of the league and set the stage for a well-matched semifinal round as teams vie for the 2025 NWSL Championship.

The rise in NWSL viewership occurs during a pivotal moment for women’s sports broadcasting, fueled by ESPN’s increased investment and commitment to dedicated programming. Given that playoff audiences often exceed regular-season figures, ESPN anticipates robust viewership numbers leading up to the 2025 NWSL Championship on November 23.