Top 11 Most Popular Sports in the US in 2025

It’s more than just a game when the Super Bowl comes to town; it’s a spark for the local economy. This is one of the most popular sports in the US, drawing millions of spectators, supporting local companies, and contributing to the funding of municipal initiatives. It demonstrates how significant events in sports history may have an impact on the community long after they are over. Then, with stadiums packed with spectators throughout every sporting event and kids hoping to be the next MVP (most valuable player), sports suddenly became a major part of American culture.

To answer your question regarding the most popular sports in the US, regardless of whether you’re a devoted fan or just curious. We’ll walk you through popularity ratings, player celebrities, and viewership figures to help you understand why these specific activities are the most popular sports in the US.

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List of the Most Popular Sports in the US

It may surprise you to learn that 160 million Americans watch live sports at least once a month. The trend for these most popular sports in the US hasn’t changed, despite consumers switching from traditional TVs to online streaming services. As a result, let’s examine some of the most popular sports in the US to see the opposite side of this craze. To create a list of the most played and most popular sports in America, we rated them by viewership and popularity. Let’s begin the game now!

1. American Football (NFL)

Governing Body: National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA)‍ & National Football League (NFL)
Notable Athletes: Joe Montana, Walter Payton, Deion Sanders, Tom Brady, Jerry Rice, and Jim Brown
Major Leagues: NFL (National Football League)

With roots in soccer and rugby, American football, commonly referred to as gridiron, is one of the most popular sports in the US. Since its formalization in the late 19th century, the sport has developed into a distinctively American pastime, and since its founding in 1920, the NFL has grown to be the most watched sports in the United States. American football, which is played by two teams of eleven players, has a devoted fan base and is one of the most watched sports in the country.

With almost 67,000 spectators every game, the NFL has the greatest average attendance of any professional league and is the most watched live sport. There are 32 teams in the league, split between the American Football Conference (AFC) and the National Football Conference (NFC). The Super Bowl is a huge event that attracts over 112 million viewers each year and has legendary halftime performances that have made it a mainstay of American culture. The fact that almost 40 million Americans play fantasy football further demonstrates how popular the game is.

You have a good chance of receiving fantastic student discounts on clothing at this time, which would enable you to purchase your preferred team’s shirt and enhance your experience. American football is a major economic force off the field; the NFL makes about $18 billion a year, with that amount expected to rise to $25 billion by 2027. The NFL has a strong hold on American culture, as evidenced by the fact that 37% of Americans identify as fans.

2. Basketball (NBA)

Governing Body: National Basketball Association (NBA)‍
Notable Athletes: Shaquille O’Neal, Kobe Bryant, LeBron James, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, and Michael Jordan
Approx. Total Fans: 155.9 Million
Major Leagues: National Basketball Association (NBA) & Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA)

Dr. James Naismith created basketball in 1891, and it has since become one of the most popular sports in the United States. What began as a straightforward indoor activity has grown to be a major aspect of American sports, especially after World War II, when cable TV’s ascent contributed to the sport’s national expansion. Five-player teams battle to dominate and shoot baskets, a dynamic that has enthralled viewers across.

As one of the most popular sports in the US, basketball is honored at every level, from high school, where there are over 17,000 teams statewide, to the NBA, which has influenced classic films like Hoosiers and Space Jam. The NBA Finals, the sport’s apex, draw an average of 15–20 million viewers each year and showcase the top teams of the season. Top talent and full venues are further shown at events like the NBA All-Star Game, which reflects the enormous popularity of the sport.

Basketball is one of the most popular sports in America, with around 155.9 million supporters. Schools, colleges, and professional leagues all play a part in its broad appeal. Advanced analytics has become more popular in basketball in recent years, and this is changing how teams plan. Data has a significant impact on players’ defensive strategies, shot selection, and shooting efficiency. Furthermore, as more international players have an impact, the NBA’s global influence has grown, indicating the league’s ongoing expansion.

3. Soccer

Governing Body: MLS‍
Notable Athletes: Michael Bradley, Christian Pulisic, Tim Howard, Clint Dempsey, and Landon Donovan
Major Leagues: Major League Soccer (MLS) & National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL)

Soccer, commonly referred to as football worldwide, has become one of the most popular and watched sports in the United States, especially since the nation hosted the FIFA World Cup in 1994, which increased the sport’s national profile. Since its founding in 1996, Major League Soccer (MLS) has grown into a significant professional league with 30 teams, including brand-new franchises like Inter Miami and Charlotte FC, with a valuation of over $600 million. The league’s premier event, the MLS Cup, features the top players and draws attention to the league’s growing appeal.

With teams like Atlanta United FC smashing attendance records by drawing over 53,000 people per game in their first season, soccer’s fan base has grown at an exponential rate. One of the top five most popular sports in the US is soccer, sometimes known as football in other places. It is especially well-liked by younger audiences, as seen by the fact that around 70% of Gen Z and Millennials watch it. The success of the U.S. Women’s National Team, especially their wins in the FIFA Women’s World Cup, has contributed to the fact that 52% of American sports fans identify as soccer enthusiasts.

Despite being the most popular sport in the world, soccer only had 24 million viewers in the United States in 2017, making it the third most popular sport after basketball and football. One of the reasons soccer has become one of the most popular sports in the US is because it was played at Sanford Stadium, one of the biggest stadiums in the country, during the 1994 World Cup. Events like the Women’s National Team’s historic victory in the first-ever Women’s World Cup have further solidified soccer’s growing appeal in the US.

4. Tennis

Governing Body: Major League Table Tennis (MLTT)‍
Notable Athletes: Billie Jean King, Serena and Venus Williams, Andre Agassi, John McEnroe, and Pete Sampras
Major Leagues: United States Tennis Association (USTA)

Tennis should be on our list of the most popular sports in the US. Since the construction of the nation’s first tennis court in 1874, tennis has been a component of popular American sports culture. With over 18 million players, tennis is one of the most popular sports in the US. With notable achievements by icons like Serena Williams, Pete Sampras, and Billie Jean King, the United States has also had a big influence on the sport.

One of the most famous events in tennis history is Billie Jean King’s triumph in the 1973 Battle of the Sexes, which broke down boundaries for female athletes. The US Open, one of the four Grand Slam competitions, is the premier tennis event in the United States, drawing more than 850,000 spectators each year and bringing in $400 million.

Two teams (singles or doubles) compete to score points using rackets in this tournament. Furthermore, with over a million spectators, tennis is one of the most popular sports in the US. Over 80 singles Grand Slam titles have been won by American athletes. With about half of the viewers being female, the fan base is comparatively gender-balanced.

5. Baseball (MLB)

Governing Body: MLB‍
Notable Athletes: Ted Williams, Bo Jackson, Mickey Mantle, Babe Ruth, and Hank Aaron
Major Leagues: MLB (Major League Baseball)

Has the question “What is the most popular sport in the US?” ever crossed your mind? Baseball, commonly referred to as America’s pastime, has had a major cultural influence on the nation since the 1860s. Since its inception in 1869, Major League Baseball has impacted countless players and fans, making it one of the most popular sports in the United States. With roughly 11.8 million viewers annually, MLB’s championship series, the World Series, is nevertheless a significant event even though it may not be as well-liked as basketball or football.

With an average of 28,000 spectators per game, baseball remains a major economic driver and a representation of American identity. MLB makes over $10 billion a year, and although about half of its fans are over 50, the league’s recent attempts to draw in younger audiences through youth programs and digital initiatives have yielded encouraging results. Stars like Babe Ruth and Hank Aaron have become national icons, and baseball continues to be a staple of American childhood, played in both small leagues and enormous stadiums.

The MLB’s social media presence has grown dramatically, with over 10 million Instagram followers and 9 million Twitter followers. Due to its long history, cultural relevance, and role in forming the country’s character, baseball frequently holds the title of most popular sports in the US despite the lack of an official national sport. It is also regarded as one of the most enjoyable outdoor pursuits for college students to partake in!

6. Boxing

Governing Body: National Boxing Association (NBA)‍
Notable Athletes: Rocky Marciano, Mike Tyson, Muhammad Ali, and the amazing Marvin Hagler
Major Leagues: Golden Boy Promotions & Premier Boxing Champions (PBC)

With origins dating back to the 19th century, boxing has grown to be one of the most popular sports in the US and has become ingrained in American sports culture. Its simplicity—two competitors putting their stamina, strength, and strategy to the test in a cramped area—is what makes it so alluring. There were 6.7 million participants in the US, making it one of the most popular sports there.

The drama of the knockout, the tension that increases with each punch evaded, and the victor’s jubilant roar have made it one of the most popular sports in the US. Tyson Fury vs. Canelo Álvarez and other major fights often bring in over $100 million in ticket sales, sponsorship deals, and pay-per-view revenue. While interest varies by age, over 33% of American sports fans watch boxing, making it the most popular sport among male viewers (nearly 60%).

7. Auto Racing

Governing Body: NASCAR (National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing)
Notable Athletes: Jeff Gordon, Jimmie Johnson, Richard Petty, Mario Andretti, and A.J. Foyt
Major Leagues: National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing (NASCAR) & IndyCar Series

Auto racing is a well-liked sport in the United States, with millions of devoted followers driven by adrenaline. Historic events like the Daytona 500, which attracted over 5 million spectators, attracted enormous audiences, and the first race came to life in 1895. While there are 27 professional teams in the IndyCar Series, NASCAR alone is in charge of 32 national and regional series races.

Legends like Mario Andretti and A.J. Foyt have left their imprint on the Indianapolis 500’s illustrious past. Make it your goal to see Formula One vehicles accelerate to 200 miles per hour in front of you, regardless of whether you were accepted into one of the top institutions in the United States. Only then will you realize why it receives over 1.1 million views and is among the most popular sports in the US!

Every year, millions of people watch Formula One or NASCAR because of the cars’ incredible speed and power. The sport is a must-see because of its high intensity and strong competitiveness, which attract spectators to iconic events like the Indianapolis 500, where skill, speed, and strategy clash in exhilarating displays.

8. Golf

Governing Body: The Majors‍
Notable Athletes: Walter Hagen, Byron Nelson, Tom Watson, Ben Hogan, and Sam Snead
Major Leagues: PGA Tour & LPGA Tour

Despite golf’s reputation as a sport for elites, millions of Americans play it leisurely and competitively. Dating back to 1888, when the first course was built, it has a lengthy history and is one of the most popular sports in the US. Younger generations frequently join the club, even though older individuals appear to be more interested in golf. The fact that H. Chandler Egan was a prominent alumnus of Harvard University will also astound you! With more than 25 million spectators, golf is undoubtedly one of the most popular sports in the US.

Golf, which comprises golf courses, tournaments, equipment sales, and associated tourism, generates over $84 billion a year, making it a major contribution to the U.S. sports economy. Given that over half of golfers make over $75,000 a year, the sport is popular with affluent individuals, which is indicative of the strong correlation between golf and business networking.

9. Ice Hockey (NHL)

Governing Body: National Hockey League (NHL)‍
Notable Athletes: Auston Matthews, Brian Leetch, Chris Chelios, Mike Mandano, and Patrick Kane
Major Leagues: NHL (National Hockey League)

Ice hockey is a fast-paced, exhilarating activity that is the fifth most popular in the US, especially in colder cities like Boston, Detroit, and Chicago. Ice hockey, which was introduced to the United States from Canada in the early 1900s, has become a popular sport that blends skill, speed, and thrill.

With nearly $5 billion in revenue each year from ticket sales, sponsorships, and television agreements with networks like ESPN and TNT, the National Hockey League (NHL) makes a substantial contribution to the American sports economy. The Stanley Cup Finals, the NHL’s most important event, draws an average of 12.41 million viewers each year and features 32 teams from the United States and Canada.

With 17,000 spectators per game packing arenas to watch the action live, NHL games continue to attract a devoted fan base. You will see why ice hockey is one of the most popular sports in the US when you witness players swing their sticks with one hand and whip forward at 100 miles per hour (approximately 161 kilometers per hour). As a result of its increased social media activity, the NHL now has over 7 million Instagram followers and 6 million Twitter followers. Approximately 37% of American sports enthusiasts watch the NHL, with men accounting for over 60% of the viewership.

10. Wrestling

Governing Body: World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE)‍
Notable Athletes: John Cena, Hulk Hogan, Lee Kemp, Kyle Dake, and Kyle Snyder
Major Leagues: World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) & All Elite Wrestling (AEW)

Wrestling has been one of the most popular sports in the US since ancient times, combining athleticism and dramatic presentation. With over 245 NCAA Division I programs, collegiate wrestling is still quite popular, and World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) enthralls viewers with fantastical characters and gripping plots.

WrestleMania, WWE’s premier event, is the standard for professional wrestling; it frequently packs stadiums with fans from all over the world and attracts over a million pay-per-view purchases. Choosing competitors for international tournaments, such as the Olympics, collegiate wrestling, and USA wrestling, helps to maintain the spirit of competitiveness. With 2.6 million viewers, wrestling has a devoted following, with over 60% of viewers being men.

WWE has also improved its ability to attract female fans with initiatives like the Women’s Evolution, which recognizes female athletes in the sport. To find out why wrestling is one of the most popular sports in the US, you should look into Montreal Screwjob or Ric Flair’s retirement. It is one of the most popular sports in America that breaks gender norms, especially when 60% of the population is slightly male.

11. Ice Skating

Governing Body: United States Figure Skating Association (USFSA)
Notable Athletes: Michelle Kwan, Katrina Witt, Peggy Fleming, and Dorothy Hamill
Major Leagues: U.S. Figure Skating (USFS)

Since its ascent to popularity during the Winter Olympics, ice skating, especially figure skating, has been a defining feature of American winter sports. With more than 700,000 skaters registered with the United States Figure Skating Association (USFSA), ice skating is one of the most popular sports in the US. Famous occasions like Dorothy Hamill’s gold medal at the 1976 Winter Olympics and the controversy involving Nancy Kerrigan and Tonya Harding in 1994 have contributed to the popularity of figure skating.

Millions of people watch major competitions like the U.S. Figure Skating Championships and the Winter Olympics, which highlight the sport’s skill and accuracy. Major competitions typically draw 90,000 spectators, however, viewership has decreased recently. However, the International Judging System (IJS) has pushed performance standards back into the spotlight. To keep the sport current, social media has also made it possible for sportsmen like Jason Brown and Nathan Chen to interact with younger audiences.

In conclusion, sports continue to be a defining aspect of American culture, and in 2025, the most popular sports in the US will reflect a mix of tradition and modern evolution. Football remains the dominant force, while basketball and baseball hold strong followings. Soccer’s rapid growth, alongside emerging sports like esports and MMA, showcases changing preferences among younger generations.

The rise of streaming platforms and social media has further boosted engagement, making sports more accessible than ever. Factors such as diversity, global influence, and technological advancements in fan experience continue to shape the sports landscape in the U.S.

Whether you’re a passionate fan of the NFL, an NBA enthusiast, or an emerging esports supporter, the variety of sports available ensures there’s something for everyone. As we move forward, the U.S. sports scene will likely continue to evolve, driven by innovation, inclusivity, and an ever-growing fan base. The love for sports remains stronger than ever!