Top 15 Most Popular Sports In The US

"Just like when the Super Bowl comes to town, it’s more than just a game – it's an economic catalyst. This is one of the biggest sport in America that brings in millions, boosting local businesses and helping fund city projects. It's proof that moments in sports history can reverberate beyond the field, leaving a lasting impact on the community." Just like that sports take up a big spot in American culture – stadiums overflowing with fans every sports season and children who dream of being the next MVP (Most Valuable Player). Whether you’re a die-hard fan or wondering about the most popular sport in America, we’ve got you covered with the most popular sport in USA. We will take you through popularity ratings, celebrity players, and viewership numbers to help you understand what makes the particular activities top sports in USA. So, grab your foam finger, wear your lucky socks, and check out some of the most popular sports in USA below!

Overview of Sports in USA

The history of the most popular sports in USA is varied. There are many popular American sports in varied spheres of society. The following table provides a brief overview of the growth of each sport in the United States:

List of the Most Popular Sports in the USA

Do you know that around 160 million people in the USA watch live sports at least once monthly? While people have moved from traditional TVs to online streaming services, the craze remains the same for these most popular sports in USA. So, if you want to look at the other side of this mania, let’s look at some of the most popular sports in America. We have ranked based on viewership and popularity to compile a list of the most played and most popular sports in America. So, let the game get started!

1. American Football (NFL)

Popularity: 74.5%‍

Governing Body: National Football League (NFL) & National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA)‍

Notable Athletes: Jim Brown, Jerry Rice, Tom Brady, Deion Sanders, Walter Payton, Joe Montana

Approx. Total Fans: 188.4 Million

Major Leagues: NFL (National Football League)

Also known as gridiron and the most popular sport in USA, American football is a team sport played by two teams of eleven players. Evolving from rugby and soccer, it's one of the most watched sports in the USA. The annual championship, the Super Bowl, draws over 112 million viewers and features iconic halftime shows. It is not only one of the most popular sports in America that is traditional but around 40 million Americans participate in fantasy football. It is undoubtedly one of the most popular sports in America by viewers. Around this time, there is a high possibility that you might get excellent student discounts on clothes allowing you to get your favorite team jersey and make your experience even more memorable.

American football, particularly the NFL, is an economic powerhouse in the U.S. The league generates over $18 billion annually in revenue, with projections aiming for $25 billion by 2027. It also enjoys a broad and passionate fanbase, with approximately 37% of the U.S. population identifying as NFL fans. The NFL has a massive presence on social media, with over 28 million followers on Instagram, 32 million on Facebook, and 28 million on Twitter.

‍

2. Basketball (NBA)

Popularity: 56.6%‍

Governing Body: National Basketball Association (NBA)‍

Notable Athletes: Michael Jordan, LeBron James, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Kobe Bryant, Shaquille O'Neal

Approx. Total Fans: 155.9 Million

Major Leagues: NBA (National Basketball Association) & WNBA (Women’s National Basketball Association) 

Invented in the 19th century, basketball is the most popular sport in USA. Teams of five battle to shoot hoops and dominate, with an average NBA Finals viewership of 15-20 million. Popular in schools (over 17,000 high school teams!), basketball boomed after WWII with the rise of cable TV and soon became the most popular sport in USA. The NBA, watched by 1.59 million viewers, has inspired movies like Hoosiers and Space Jam, showcasing its global influence as one of the most popular sports in USA.

In recent years, basketball has witnessed the rise of advanced analytics, which is transforming how teams strategize. Players’ shooting efficiencies, shot selection, and defensive tactics are being heavily influenced by data. Additionally, the NBA has seen increased global influence with more international players making an impact, signaling the league's continued growth on a global scale.

3. Baseball (MLB)

Popularity: 50.5%‍

Governing Body: MLB‍

Notable Athletes: Babe Ruth, Hank Aaron, Mickey Mantle, Bo Jackson, Ted Williams

Approx. Total Fans: 171.1 Million

Major Leagues: MLB (Major League Baseball)

Have you ever wondered about “What is the number 1 sport in America?” America's Pastime and one of the most popular sports in USA, Baseball, is a bat-and-ball game enjoyed by two teams. Though not topping football or basketball in viewership, the World Series still draws around 11.8 million viewers. The MLB’s rich history, dating back to the 1860s, has shaped American culture, with stars like Babe Ruth becoming national icons​. A cornerstone of American childhood and identity, it's played from little leagues to massive stadiums & is one of the most fun outdoor activities to try as a college student! Even though there is no national sport in the USA, baseball will win the race unanimously any day. 

Baseball remains a major contributor to the U.S. economy as it is one of the most popular sports in USA, with Major League Baseball (MLB) generating over $10 billion in annual revenue. Approximately 50% of baseball fans are over the age of 50, but recent efforts to attract younger audiences have shown success, particularly through youth baseball programs and digital initiatives. MLB has made strides in increasing its social media presence, with over 10 million followers on Instagram and more than 9 million on Twitter.

4. Boxing

Popularity: 23.4%‍

Governing Body: National Boxing Association (NBA)‍

Notable Athletes: Muhammad Ali, Mike Tyson, Rocky Marciano, Marvelous Marvin Hagler

Approx. Total Fans: 20 Million

Major Leagues: PBC (Premier Boxing Champions) & Golden Boy Promotions

With roots dating back to the 19th century, boxing has cemented itself as a cornerstone of American sporting culture and earned the title of one of the most popular sports in USA. Its appeal lies in its raw simplicity: two athletes testing their strength, strategy, and endurance in a tightly confined space. Being one of the most famous sports in USA, 6.7 million in the United States participated in it. 

The drama of the knockout, the tension building with each dodged punch, and the triumphant roar of the victor all contribute to it becoming one of the most popular sports in America. Major fights, such as those involving Canelo Álvarez and Tyson Fury, often bring in over $100 million in pay-per-view sales, ticket revenue, and sponsorship deals. Approximately 33% of U.S. sports fans follow boxing, and interest spans across different age groups, though the sport remains particularly popular among male audiences (about 60%). 

5. Ice Hockey (NHL)

Popularity: 22.1%‍

Governing Body: National Hockey League (NHL)‍

Notable Athletes: Patrick Kane, Mike Mandano, Chris Chelios, Brian Leetch, Auston Matthews

Approx. Total Fans: 136.2 Million

Major Leagues: NHL (National Hockey League)

Fast-paced and thrilling, ice hockey is the 5th most popular sport in America! Teams battle on ice skates, using sticks to shoot a puck into the opponent's net (think hockey on ice!). Ice hockey is one of the biggest sports in USA with cold climates like Boston, Detroit, and Chicago. The Stanley Cup Finals garner around 12.41 million viewers yearly, showcasing the best players from the NHL, a league spanning 32 teams in the US and Canada. Once you witness players swing their sticks with one hand and whip forward at 100 miles per hour, you will know why ice hockey is one of the most popular sports in America.

The National Hockey League (NHL) continues to be a significant contributor to the U.S. sports economy, generating over $5 billion in revenue annually. Ticket sales, sponsorships, and broadcasting deals with networks like ESPN and TNT drive much of the revenue. The NHL has been increasingly active on social media, with over 7 million followers on Instagram and 6 million on Twitter. Approximately 37% of U.S. sports fans follow the NHL, with male fans comprising around 60% of the viewership. 

6. Soccer

Popularity: 21.6%‍

Governing Body: MLS‍

Notable Athletes: Landon Donovan, Clint Dempsey, Tim Howard, Christian Pulisic, Michael Bradley

Approx. Total Fans: 10.7 Million

Major Leagues: MLS (Major League Soccer) &  NWSL (National Women's Soccer League)

Known elsewhere as football, soccer is not only becoming one of the most popular sports in USA but also ranking among the top 5 most popular sports in USA. It was founded in 1996 and has helped elevate soccer’s profile. It's particularly popular among younger audiences. Despite its global dominance, soccer's viewership peaked in 2017 as the 3rd most-watched sport with 24 million US viewers (after basketball and football). One of the reasons that soccer has become one of the most popular sports in USA, it’s because the 1994 World Cup was hosted at Sanford Stadium, which is one of the biggest stadiums in the USA.

MLS now boasts 30 teams, with new franchises like Inter Miami and Charlotte FC, each carrying valuations surpassing $600 million. Approximately 52% of sports fans identify as soccer fans, and it is especially popular among younger generations, with nearly 70% of Gen Z and millennials following the sport. Another reason for this being one of the most popular sports in USA is the Women's National Team winning the first-ever Women's World Cup.

7. Golf

Popularity: 19.7%‍

Governing Body: The Majors‍

Notable Athletes: Ben Hogan, Sam Snead, Tom Watson, Byron Nelson, Walter Hagen

Approx. Total Fans: 123 Million

Major Leagues: PGA Tour & LPGA Tour

While often seen as elitist, golf boasts millions of American players, both competitive and recreational. One of the most popular sports in USA, its roots run deep, with the first course built in 1888. Though older people seem to show more interest in golf, the younger generations often take up the club. Moreover, it will blow your mind that H. Chandler Egan was one of the Harvard University notable alumni! Of course, over 25 million people watch golf, making it one of the most watched sports in USA. 

Golf is a significant contributor to the U.S. sports economy, generating approximately $84 billion annually across the industry, which includes golf courses, tournaments, equipment sales, and related tourism. The sport appeals to a higher-income demographic, with about 50% of fans earning more than $75,000 annually, reflecting the close association between golf and business networking.

8. Wrestling

Popularity: 16.5%‍

Governing Body: World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE)‍

Notable Athletes: Lee Kemp, Kyle Dake, Kyle Snyder, Hulk Hogan, John Cena

Approx. Total Fans: 25 Million

Major Leagues: WWE (World Wrestling Entertainment) & AEW (All Elite Wrestling)

Dating back to ancient civilizations, wrestling has become one of the most popular sports in USA that blends athleticism with theatrical performance. Collegiate wrestling boasts a strong presence in the US, while professional wrestling companies like WWE captivate audiences with larger-than-life characters and storylines. WrestleMania, WWE's biggest event, draws over 1 million pay-per-view buys, showcasing the sport's entertainment value and becoming the most popular USA sport.

With 2.6 million viewers, USA Wrestling selects athletes for international competitions like the Olympics, keeping the tradition of competitive wrestling alive in the US. If you want to unearth why wrestling is one of the biggest sports in America, you should look up “Montreal Screwjob” or Ric Flair’s retirement. It is one of the most popular sports in America that shatters the gender stereotype as the demographic skews slightly male (60%), but WWE has made considerable strides in attracting female viewers, particularly with the growth of its women’s division, known as the “Women’s Evolution.”

9. Tennis

Popularity: 15.5%‍

Governing Body: Major League Table Tennis (MLTT)‍

Notable Athletes: Pete Sampras, John McEnroe, Andre Agassi, Serena and Venus Williams, Billie Jean King

Approx. Total Fans: 30 Million

Major Leagues: USTA (United States Tennis Association)

Since we are listing the most popular sports in USA, tennis deserves to be in it. With the first US court built in 1874, tennis is a long-standing and popular US sport. Played competitively and recreationally, it boasts prestigious tournaments like the US Open, one of the Grand Slams.  Matches feature two teams (singles or doubles) battling to score points with rackets. Moreover, tennis is one of the most popular sports in USA (over a million viewers) as the US players won over 80 Grand Slam singles titles.

The U.S. Open alone generates over $400 million annually, bringing more than 850,000 fans to New York City during the two-week event, with a significant boost to local hospitality, retail, and tourism sectors. The fanbase is relatively gender-balanced, with roughly 50% of viewers being women. Tennis players are among the most-followed athletes on social media, with stars like Serena Williams, Roger Federer, and Rafael Nadal each boasting tens of millions of followers across Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

10. Auto Racing

Popularity: 14.6%‍

Governing Body: National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing (NASCAR)‍

Notable Athletes: A.J. Foyt, Mario Andretti, Richard Petty, Jimmie Johnson, Jeff Gordon

Approx. Total Fans: 71 Million

Major Leagues: NASCAR (National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing) & IndyCar Series

Fueled by adrenaline, Auto Racing is a popular US sport with millions of loyal fans. The first race roared to life in 1895, and iconic events like the Daytona 500 (over 5 million viewers) drew in huge crowds. Speed demons race on legendary tracks like Daytona International Speedway and Indianapolis Motor Speedway, showcasing peak performance and daring maneuvers. It does not matter whether you have got into the best universities in USA or not; make it a wish to witness Formula One cars speeding 200 miles per hour before your eyes. Only then will you understand why it’s one of the most popular sports in USA and gets more than 1.1 million views! 

Auto racing is more than just a sport; it's an exhilarating experience that leaves fans on the edge of their seats. Whether it's NASCAR or Formula One, the sheer power and speed of these cars captivate millions of viewers every year. The sport's intense energy and fierce competition make it a must-watch, drawing crowds to legendary races like the Indianapolis 500, where speed, strategy, and skill collide in thrilling spectacles.

11. Ice Skating 

Popularity: 2%‍

Governing Body: USFSA (United States Figure Skating Association) ‍

Notable Athletes: Dorothy Hamill, Peggy Fleming, Katrina Witt, Michelle Kwan

Approx. Total Fans: 15 Million

Major Leagues: USFS (U.S. Figure Skating)

From iconic figures like Sonja Henie to the rise of popular winter rinks in cities across the country, ice skating has deeply embedded itself in American culture. Hence, it is one of the most popular sports in USA. Historically, the sport has enjoyed significant popularity, particularly with figure skating gaining mainstream attention during the Winter Olympics. Although viewership has seen a decline in recent years (with 90,000 average viewers for major events), figure skating remains a beloved tradition, celebrated for its artistry and athleticism. The U.S.

With the adoption of more precise scoring systems like the International Judging System (IJS), there’s an increased emphasis on technical difficulty and performance precision. Additionally, the rise of social media has allowed athletes like Nathan Chen and Jason Brown to maintain relevance and engage fans, even between major competitions.

12. Mixed Martial Arts 

Popularity: 1% ‍

Governing Body: Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC)‍

Notable Athletes: Anderson Silva, Randy Couture, Anthony Pettis, Mark Coleman 

Approx. Total Fans: 18 Million

Major Leagues: UFC (Ultimate Fighting Championship)

Mixed martial arts (MMA), a combat sport combining techniques from boxing, wrestling, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Muay Thai, and other disciplines, has surged in popularity, becoming one of the fastest-growing and most popular sports in USA, drawing an average of 3.9 million viewers. The rise of the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC), established in 1993, has been instrumental in this growth, transforming MMA from a niche sport to a mainstream spectacle. UFC events regularly attract huge pay-per-view audiences, and high-profile athletes like Conor McGregor, Israel Adesanya, and Amanda Nunes have become household names. 

UFC has also expanded its reach globally, hosting more international events in places like Abu Dhabi, Australia, and Singapore, further contributing to the sport's growth. Moreover, cross-promotion fights like the historic boxing match between Conor McGregor and Floyd Mayweather in 2017 have bridged the gap between MMA and other combat sports, introducing MMA to a wider audience.

13. Rugby

Popularity: 10%‍

Governing Body: The United States Rugby Football Foundation (USRFF)‍

Notable Athletes: Chris Wyles, Samu Manoa, Blaine Scully

Approx. Total Fans: 9 Million

Major Leagues: MLR (Major League Rugby)

Rugby is one of the most popular sports in USA, with Major League Rugby (MLR) attracting over 2 million viewers for its championship. Key players include Bryce Campbell and AJ MacGinty. The Collegiate Rugby Championship and USA Rugby National Championships are significant events, boosting the sport’s popularity and participation​; as one of the top sports in America, it garners more than 2.5 million viewers every year​.

Another important development is the push for the U.S. to host the Rugby World Cup in 2031, which, if successful, could be a transformative moment for rugby in America. Hosting the World Cup would likely lead to a surge in participation, media coverage, and overall interest, similar to the impact of the FIFA World Cup on soccer in the U.S. in the 1990s.

Additional Popular Sports in the USA

In addition to mainstream sports like football and basketball, the USA is home to a variety of other popular recreational activities. Below are some of the best sports in USA:

14. Fishing

Popularity: 39% (one of the most popular outdoor activities in the U.S.)

Governing Body: Bass Anglers Sportsman Society (B.A.S.S.), Major League Fishing (MLF), U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (for regulations)

Notable Athletes: Kevin VanDam, Jacob Wheeler, Bill Dance, Mike Iaconelli

Approx. Total Fans: 40 Million

Major Leagues: B.A.S.S. (Bass Anglers Sportsman Society) & MLF (Major League Fishing)

While often considered a leisure activity, fishing is one of the most popular sports in USA, attracting millions of participants annually. From freshwater bass fishing to deep-sea saltwater tournaments, the sport has a deep connection to American outdoor culture. Fishing’s popularity spans all age groups, making it a sport for both young and old, with an estimated 50 million Americans fishing annually, whether competitively or recreationally. 

Fishing is particularly popular in rural areas and states with abundant natural water resources, such as Florida, Texas, and Michigan. It is indeed one of the most popular sports in USA. Competitive fishing leagues like Major League Fishing (MLF) and Bassmaster Classic also engage with fans through social media, offering live streams of tournaments, behind-the-scenes footage, and real-time updates.

15. Camping

Popularity: 48% (one of the most popular sports in USA for recreational activities)

Governing Body: National Park Service (NPS), U.S. Forest Service (USFS), private campground associations

Notable Figures: John Muir (naturalist and early advocate for the preservation of wilderness in the U.S.), Cheryl Strayed (author of Wild)

Approx. Total Fans: 50 Million

Major Leagues: Boy Scouts of America & Girl Scouts of the USA

Camping is more than just a relaxation activity in the U.S.- it’s a national pastime, deeply tied to America’s love for the outdoors and its vast natural landscapes. With nearly 48 million Americans going camping at least once a year, it remains one of the most popular sports in America and a popular way to enjoy the country’s national parks, forests, and wilderness areas. Whether it’s traditional tent camping, RV camping, or glamping (glamorous camping), the activity has evolved to meet a wide variety of interests and levels of comfort, making it accessible for all.

The activity is especially popular among millennials and Gen Z, with younger generations increasingly seeking outdoor experiences that promote wellness, relaxation, and adventure. Hashtags such as #vanlife and #campvibes have helped build a community of outdoor enthusiasts who share their camping experiences, gear reviews, and scenic campsite locations.

In this grand arena, we've taken quite the journey through these most popular sports in USA. From touchdowns to home runs, from fast-paced courts to ice-cold rinks, these most popular sports in USA have kept America entertained, engaged, and sometimes even enraged! So, whether you're pitching for baseball, scoring for soccer, or swinging for the fences in your own life, remember that it's the love for the game that truly matters!