Why We Need to Stop Comparing Men's and Women's Sports

In conversations about sports, there's a phrase that pops up far too often: "But how does it compare to the men's game?" Whether it's attendance numbers, salaries, or TV ratings, women’s sports are consistently framed in relation to their male counterparts. It’s a habit that might seem harmless on the surface — just a data point, a talking point. But underneath, this constant comparison is not only misguided, it’s damaging.

Here’s why we need to stop doing it.

1. They’re Building From Different Starting Lines

Men’s professional sports leagues have had decades — in some cases, over a century — to develop, build infrastructure, attract sponsorships, and cultivate fan bases. Women’s leagues? Many are barely a decade old. Comparing them without acknowledging this massive head start is like judging a 5K runner against a marathoner and pretending they started at the same time.

Women’s sports aren’t behind — they’re just newer. And their trajectory is steep.

2. Different Doesn’t Mean Less Than

The style of play, the pace, the physicality — yes, these things can differ between men’s and women’s games. But that doesn’t equate to one being better or worse. The magic of women’s sports lies in their own dynamics: smarter ball movement, creative strategy, and often a stronger sense of team play.

If you’re expecting the same product as men’s sports, you’re not watching — you’re comparing. And you’re missing the point.

3. Women's Sports Are Driving Their Own Economy

Let’s be clear: women’s sports are not a charity case. They're not surviving on borrowed attention or sympathy clicks. They’re attracting massive crowds (hello, 92,000+ at a women’s soccer match in Barcelona), signing major sponsorship deals, and building global fan communities. The National Women’s Soccer League just inked a $240 million broadcast deal — not because it’s “the right thing to do,” but because it’s good business.

This isn’t about catching up to men. It’s about carving their own, profitable path — and doing it well.

4. Comparison Undermines Value

Every time women’s sports are measured against men’s, it sends a subtle (or not-so-subtle) message: that their value is dependent on how close they come to replicating the men’s version. That their worth is not intrinsic, but relative.

This attitude makes it harder to appreciate the incredible things happening in women’s sports on their own terms — the comeback stories, the record-breaking moments, the communities being built.

5. The World Is Changing — And Fast

Look around. The next generation isn’t waiting for permission to care about women’s sports. Young fans are growing up watching Caitlin Clark hit logo threes, Alex Morgan dominate World Cups, and WNBA stars land sneaker deals and sell out arenas.

The audience is already here. What’s outdated is the constant need to justify women’s sports by using men’s sports as the benchmark.

Let Them Be What They Are: Great

Men’s and women’s sports are both worth watching, supporting, and celebrating — but not because they mirror each other. They thrive in different ways, speak to different audiences, and reflect different strengths.

Instead of asking how they compare, maybe it’s time we ask: how can we appreciate each for what they uniquely bring to the world of sports?

The answer? Watch. Support. Celebrate. And leave the com

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