Red Card: The Women’s Sports Gender Wage Gap
In the last century, women's sports have made significant strides. Previously barred from the Olympics, women now participate in every event, fueling the expansion and enthusiasm in women’s professional sports leagues.
While these advancements are celebrated, the gender wage gap persists in sports, with female athletes earning less than their male counterparts. Challenges like unequal pay and limited sponsorship opportunities continue to affect women’s sports, causing female athletes' financial compensation to lag men.
The Gender Wage Gap Exists in All Sectors
The gender pay gap is not limited to sports; it's global and affects all sectors and areas of life. Our research at the Ontario Pay Equity Office reveals that, on average, Ontario women, on an hourly basis, make 87 cents for every dollar made by a man, making the gender wage gap 13%. The gender wage gap is larger for racialized women, women who are newcomers, women with disabilities, Indigenous women, and trans women.
According to a report from Deloitte (UK), women's professional sports are projected to generate a staggering US$1.28 billion in global revenues by 2024. This 2023 study conducted by RBC and The Collective underscores a significant pay gap between male and female athletes, with men earning approximately 21 times more in playing salary. The potential of women's sports to contribute to the global economy is immense, and closing the gender pay gap could further boost this contribution. Additionally, factors such as pregnancy, childbirth, and aging contribute to women experiencing a significant decline in their career earnings.
Refocus on Women Athletes
Non-playing earnings, such as corporate and brand partnerships, are not just a supplement but a crucial part of success and sustainability. Female athletes greatly value these earnings, which are instrumental in bridging the gender pay gap.
In comparison, a female athlete receives 82% of their compensation from endorsements, while only 37% of a man’s revenue comes from this income source. This method maximizes male athletes' revenue but overlooks female athletes' distinct value. Combined with record attendance and viewership, it is increasingly clear that women’s sports are good for business, drive revenue and attract loyal fans.
While we can celebrate the progress in women’s sports, much more work remains until all women’s compensation is equal to that of men across all work sectors. We must continue to push until women’s participation becomes unremarkable because it has become normative. This is the work we do every day at the Ontario Pay Equity Office.