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Top 11 Most Popular Sports in the US

August 16, 2025 Aksel Kryhlmand

11. Ice Skating

Though it doesn’t top the charts, ice skating, especially figure skating, holds a special place in American hearts. With over 700,000 registered skaters under USFSA and iconic moments like Dorothy Hamill’s Olympic gold, the sport combines elegance and athleticism. Despite declining TV viewership, major events like the Winter Olympics still captivate audiences. Skaters like Nathan Chen continue to inspire a younger generation, keeping the sport alive and gliding.

10.

From NASCAR’s Daytona 500 to IndyCar’s Indianapolis 500, America’s need for speed is undeniable. Auto racing boasts over 71 million fans and legendary drivers like Jeff Gordon and Mario Andretti. The sport’s high-octane energy and jaw-dropping speeds make it one of the most exhilarating events to watch. Whether it’s stock cars or Formula One, the roar of the engines keeps fans coming back year after year.

9. Tennis

Tennis blends precision with power, making it a long-time American favorite. The U.S. has produced legends like Serena Williams, Pete Sampras, and Billie Jean King, whose 1973 “Battle of the Sexes” broke barriers in sport. The US Open, drawing nearly a million fans annually, is a Grand Slam highlight and revenue powerhouse. With millions playing recreationally and balanced gender appeal, tennis continues to thrive.

8. Wrestling

With deep historical roots and a modern flair for the dramatic, wrestling remains one of America’s most unique sports. WWE superstars like John Cena and Hulk Hogan have helped build a global fanbase, while collegiate wrestling keeps competition fierce. Events like WrestleMania fill stadiums and draw millions of pay-per-view viewers, blending real skill with theatrical performance in a way only wrestling can.

7. Golf

Often associated with wealth and weekend leisure, golf is a surprisingly massive industry in the US, generating $84 billion annually. With over 25 million viewers and iconic courses like Augusta National, it’s one of the most popular individual sports. Though traditionally skewed older, a new generation is picking up clubs, and apps, keeping golf relevant and lucrative across the board.

6. Soccer

Soccer may not be America’s No. 1 sport, but it’s making rapid strides. With the rise of MLS, growing interest in international tournaments, and the dominance of the U.S. Women’s National Team, soccer now commands over 50 million viewers. Franchises like Inter Miami are drawing record-breaking crowds, and the sport’s appeal among younger audiences means its future looks bright on American soil.

5. Ice Hockey

With its roots in Canada, ice hockey has carved out a fierce following in the U.S., especially in colder cities. NHL games draw about 17,000 fans per match, and the Stanley Cup Finals remain a marquee event. Players like Patrick Kane and Auston Matthews keep the energy high on the ice, while the sport’s speed and toughness create unforgettable moments each season.

4. Boxing

Boxing has long held a place in American sports history, thanks to legends like Muhammad Ali and Mike Tyson. Though its mainstream appeal has dipped, the sport still delivers blockbuster bouts that rake in hundreds of millions in revenue. Around 20 million Americans follow boxing, captivated by its intensity, drama, and tradition of greatness in the ring.

3. Baseball

pedro martinez baseball — Daniel M. Silva / Shutterstock.com

Baseball may not dominate like it once did, but with 171 million fans and over 150 years of history, it’s woven into the fabric of American culture. The MLB continues to draw strong crowds, especially during the World Series. Youth leagues, historic ballparks, and iconic players like Babe Ruth have helped preserve baseball’s legacy as a sport that truly defines summer in America.

2. Basketball

From high school gyms to NBA arenas, basketball is a way of life for millions of Americans. The sport boasts over 155 million fans, and with events like the NBA Finals and All-Star Weekend, it’s as much entertainment as competition. Basketball’s fast pace, dynamic personalities, and global reach have made it one of the most beloved sports in the U.S. and around the world.

1. American Football

NFL — YES Market Media / Shutterstock.com

No other sport comes close to football’s dominance in the U.S. With over 188 million fans, the NFL is a behemoth, generating billions in revenue and owning TV ratings. The Super Bowl alone pulls over 112 million viewers, making it the biggest annual sports event in the country. Fantasy leagues, tailgates, and iconic rivalries keep fans engaged year-round, while the sport continues to expand its influence off the field, in schools, and online.