Can anyone argue the exponential growth of the NWSL right now? It speaks volumes about the work done behind the scenes when we note the worth of these clubs. The investors have pumped millions to bring the league to where it is right now. One can only say, they keep growing and challenge the European leagues like WSL. With the new assessments coming out, you are in for a treat!
Mind you, the MLS runs at risk of being in the shadows of the NWSL if this carries on. Despite having Lionel Messi, the league’s growth percentage compared to world soccer remains subpar. Likewise, the Saudi Pro League seems to get more players in their prime and the MLS must brush away the talk of ‘retirement home.’ According to an X post by Eben Novy-Williams of Sportico, we have the latest valuations of the 14 clubs.
According to the tweet, he stated, “Average team: Worth $104 million, up 57% from last year Gaps: Huge gap between 1 and 2, and between 2 and 3 Newcomers: Bay FC and Royals on list for first time Expansion: Boston is joining on a $53M expansion fee.” The numbers look interesting for all the clubs, with these top 5 soccer franchises leading from the front.
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Our latest @NWSL valuations are out:
Average team: Worth $104 million, up 57% from last year
Gaps: Huge gap between 1 and 2, and between 2 and 3
Newcomers: Bay FC and Royals on list for first time
Expansion: Boston is joining on a $53M expansion fee pic.twitter.com/GHgRPROe9S— Eben Novy-Williams (@novy_williams) September 25, 2024
NWSL most valuable clubs for 2024
Angel City FC – $250 million
With a club boasting over 30 sailors on a ship, a few captains like Alexis Ohanian and Natalie Portman run the machine smoothly. They are one of the fastest-growing clubs in the world with top players like Alyssa Thompson, Sarah Gorden, and Dijana Haracic. Although the team lies in 10th place in the NWSL rankings, Angel City makes substantial investments on and off the field. Hence, the club looks to be on top of the charts for a long time to come.
FUN FACT: Generate the highest revenue compared to any women’s team worldwide.
Kansas City Current- $182 million
Lying 4th in the current season, Kansas City Current hopes to win the NWSL title, this season. Identical to Angel City FC, this new age club formed 3 years back runs on the talents of Bia Zaneratto, Temwa Chawinga, and midfielder Vanessa DiBernardo. Their investors, Angie Long, Chris Long, and Brittany Mahomes, snappily get sponsorship deals to make the club great. They are the first club to have a specifically designed stadium.
FUN FACT: NFL icon Patrick Mahomes is a minority investor
San Diego Wave FC- $132 million
Alex Morgan recently announced her retirement from professional soccer, leaving a massive void at the club. But don’t worry, they have enough players to turn around their current slump. The Wave lies in 12th position but still ranks amongst the most valuable clubs in the league. Significantly, the Levine Leichtman family took over the reins of the waves from Ron Burkle in two parts but remains the principal owner.
FUN FACT: USWNT’s number 1 defender, Naomi Girma, plays for San Diego and they lead the attendance record in 2023.
Bay FC- $121 million
Despite ranking 12th in the NWSL table, Bay FC is an exciting team one must not sleep on. Making their debut in the NWSL as an expansion team, Racheal Kundananji, Deyna Castellanos, and Asisat Oshoala make up for a solid team. They have the players and the right investors to lead the team forward. They have a combination of former USWNT players and an investment firm Sixth Street leading the way. A notable franchise to keep your eyes on.
FUN FACT: Bay FC’s logo features a circular design with a blackletter monogram B, which pays homage to the Golden Gate Bridge.
Washington Spirit- $95 million
The potential serial winner of the NWSL, Washington Spirit, lies second in the table. Found in 2012, the club continues to rise with steady leadership amongst the ranks. Michele Kang, the club’s owner, made smart investments, leading them to challenge for the league title. Playing their games in the iconic Audi Field, the spirit is high for their home games. Hence, we should step back and take notice of the sensational soccer club.
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FUN FACT: Just one name with no explanations – Trinity Rodman!
Hence, these are the top 5 valuable clubs in the NWSL. In a far-fetched statement, maybe for some, these clubs can probably compete with the MLS clubs in terms of valuation in the future if we get high attendance and broadcast deals. Long may that continue!
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