The Women’s World Cup 2023 has had a significant impact on women’s football in New Zealand, with the tournament sparking a surge of interest and enthusiasm for the sport. The success of the event has generated hope and belief among fans, signaling a potential turning point for women’s football in the country. Despite being co-hosted with Australia, the matches held in New Zealand have drawn record-breaking crowds and captured the attention of the nation.
The Women’s World Cup has brought football to the forefront of New Zealand’s sporting landscape, which has traditionally been dominated by rugby and cricket. The tournament has showcased the skills of global stars like Alexia Putellas, Alex Morgan, Ada Hegerberg, and Fridolina Rolfo, captivating crowds from Auckland to Wellington and Hamilton to Dunedin. The unexpected victory of New Zealand’s Football Ferns over former world champions Norway on the opening night set the tone for an exciting and unpredictable tournament. As a result, the Football Ferns managed to gain four points from three games, surpassing their previous World Cup performances.
The Women’s World Cup has not only attracted large crowds but has also paved the way for the development of women’s football in New Zealand. Before the tournament, there were no professional women’s football teams in the country. However, since being named co-hosts, Wellington Phoenix has joined Australia’s A-League Women. This development has inspired young girls, with the Wellington Phoenix academy receiving emails every day from girls dreaming of becoming professional players. The presence of domestic role models and increased media coverage has made the Football Ferns recognizable figures, encouraging more young girls to take up the sport.
The impact of the Women’s World Cup extends beyond the field. The tournament has brought about a transformation in the way football, particularly women’s football, is perceived in New Zealand. The record-breaking ticket sales and sell-out crowds at Eden Park, New Zealand’s national stadium, demonstrate the growing popularity and acceptance of the sport. The success of the tournament has prompted discussions about the availability of clubs, pitches, and coaches for aspiring young players. Challenges remain, such as the absence of a women’s professional league in New Zealand, but there is optimism that a strong foundation has been laid for the growth and development of women’s football.
The long-term legacy of the Women’s World Cup in New Zealand is yet to be fully realized. The significant interest generated by the tournament is expected to result in a surge of young girls wanting to play football in the coming years. This influx of participation will contribute to the progression of the sport and potentially lead to the establishment of a women’s professional league. The passion and enthusiasm exhibited by fans throughout the tournament indicate a bright future for women’s football in New Zealand.
Overall, the Women’s World Cup 2023 has had a transformative impact on women’s football in New Zealand. It has captured the nation’s attention, breaking ticket sale records, and inspiring young girls to pursue their dreams in the sport. While challenges and opportunities lie ahead for New Zealand Football, the success of the tournament has set the stage for the continued growth and development of women’s football in the country.
