Australia's semi-final loss to England garnered an astonishing 7.13 million viewers, setting a new pinnacle in viewership according to research firm OzTAM's records since 2001.
Record-Breaking Viewership:
With Matildas matches sold out months ahead and an anticipated average attendance exceeding 30,000 across 64 matches, the excitement around the tournament is palpable.
Matildas Make Waves:
The previous Women's World Cup in France attracted over 1.1 million fans across 52 matches, averaging an impressive crowd of 21,756.
Global Impact:
New Zealand faced weaker demand, but White Ferns matches still set soccer attendance records despite some games drawing as few as 7,000 fans.
Mixed Fortunes:
Matildas' star Sam Kerr emphasizes the need for increased funding in development and grassroots soccer, shedding light on the funding gap at the foundation of the sport
Following the Matildas' World Cup journey, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese pledges A$200 million to bolster women's sports facilities, with soccer expected to receive significant support.
Government Response
The push for free-to-air broadcasting of women's sporting events gains momentum, addressing concerns of limited access to non-Australian World Cup matches.
Women's soccer overcomes historical challenges in countries like England, where gender barriers persisted until 1970, while Spain navigates internal disputes impacting their World Cup participation."