Gayle Benson Tops Forbes' Most Powerful Women in Sports

Forbes released its inaugural 2025 “America’s Most Powerful Women in Sports” list, led by New Orleans Saints and Pelicans owner Gayle Benson. Indiana Fever star Caitlin Clark is the highest-ranked active athlete at No. 4 after driving record TV viewership, massive ticket-sales growth and landing endorsements that contributed an estimated $8.1 million in rookie-season income; she produced strong per-game numbers and helped the Fever reach the playoffs despite being sidelined for much of the 2025 season by injuries. Las Vegas Aces center A’ja Wilson placed No. 15 and is noted for a six-year Nike deal, a signature shoe and apparel line, a bestselling book and multiple MVP/defensive honors. Aces coach Becky Hammon ranked No. 22 after leading the team to three championships and becoming the first WNBA head coach to average over $1 million in pay. The list also features legends like Billie Jean King and Simone Biles and executives such as Nike’s Amy Montagne, with Forbes emphasizing rankings that reward current influence and the ability to shape sports’ commercial future.