Patrick Mahomes Champions the Rise of Women’s Sports at the TIME100 Gala

In April, Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes was once again named a member of the 2024 TIME100, a list that honors the 100 most influential people of the year. This marks Mahomes’s third appearance on the prestigious list, highlighting his continued impact both on and off the field. This year, Mahomes took the stage at the TIME100 Gala to deliver a powerful toast celebrating the rise and future of women’s sports.

“Tonight, I’d like to raise a glass to a new era in sports,” Mahomes began, setting the tone for a heartfelt and inspiring speech. “An era when the women’s game is finally getting the attention it deserves. For a long time, there was this well-meaning but patronizing idea that you should care about the women’s sports because that aligns with your values. And sure, there’s some merit to that. But the real reason you should care about women’s sports is because they’re incredible.”

The gala crowd erupted in applause, affirming Mahomes’s statement. He continued by pointing to specific examples of excellence in women’s sports. “And just Google A’ja Wilson’s highlights and you’ll see what I’m talking about,” Mahomes said, referring to the WNBA star and fellow TIME100 member. “The talent, the narratives, the personalities. Women’s sports has it all. And I think people are finally starting to figure that out.”

Mahomes highlighted key milestones in women’s sports viewership and growth, underscoring the increasing recognition and support. “The women’s NCAA basketball championship was ESPN’s most-viewed college basketball game ever. A million more fans watched Coco Gauff win the U.S. Open than the men’s final. And leagues like the WNBA and the NWSL are signing huge new rights deals and planning big expansions.”

As an advocate for women’s sports, Mahomes spoke with pride about his family’s involvement in this movement. “I’m proud of the part my family has played in this movement,” he said. “As a co-owner of the Kansas City Current, my wife, Brittany, is working hard to grow women’s soccer and broaden the path for the next generation of young athletes like our daughter. Last month, we kicked off the new season in a brand-new stadium, the first in the world to be built specifically for a women’s pro team. I feel very confident that investment will pay off in more ways than one.”

Mahomes emphasized the importance of continued investment and support for women’s sports. “We all need to keep investing in the women’s game with our attention, with our media and with our wallets. Because this isn’t a flash in the pan. It’s the future.”

He concluded his toast with a powerful message that resonated with everyone present. “So here’s a toast to the greatness that is women’s sports. It’s been happening, and I’m glad the world is catching on.”

Patrick Mahomes’s speech at the TIME100 Gala was more than just a toast; it was a rallying cry for the future of women’s sports. His words highlighted the incredible talent and potential within women’s sports and called for ongoing support and recognition. As Mahomes continues to use his platform to champion women’s sports, his influence extends beyond the football field, inspiring a new generation of athletes and fans.