Successes breed more successes, and the United States women's World Cup victory 5-2 against Japan Sunday proved that soccer is viable in this country. Sure, the MLS has been here for quite a long time, but for a women's sporting event to pull comparable numbers to Game 7 of the 2014 World Series, should make people take some degree of notice. As well, the numbers were similar to game 6 of last month's NBA finals, despite the fact that wasn't reflected in their pay.
While you're at it, you might scream gender inequality as well. According to a tweet sent out by Randy Scott of ESPN, the women's national team will receive a lump sum of $2 million dollars for WINNING the World Cup, while the men got an obscene $8 million flopping out in group play. As well, the Fox Network found a ratings goldmine. This from NPR, "Along the way, the women's game has drawn compliments for lacking the elaborate (and action-slowing) histrionics elite men display as they attempt to draw referees' calls. It's also been defended by comedian Amy Poehler, who urged Americans to support the U.S. team."
As for the numbers, one must remember that there is no professional league in the United States and a look at the numbers brings some startling revelations, as NPR tells readers:
"Sunday night's game shattered viewing records for soccer in the U.S. - played by men or women - according to preliminary numbers Fox released Monday morning. The final drew 'a prodigious 15.2/27 metered market household rating/share' from 7-9 p.m. ET, Fox says, citing data from the Nielsen ratings service. The network adds that the audience 'peaked at 18.3/31 from 8:45-9:00 p.m. ET,' as more Americans tuned in to watch the celebrations in Vancouver."
Lest we forget, the women have actually won World Cup, something the men cannot say.
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