Cricket may be number one sport in India but other sports are gradually attracting viewership. IPL is once again dragging viewers from other sports.
Top 10 viewed sports in India:
1. Cricket: 12.2 crore viewers
2. Wrestling: 9.6 crores
3. Soccer: 8.3 crore viewers - surprise! Fottball is gaining popularity among Metro viewers and traditional football bastions like Bengal, Goa, Kerala and Manipur. 2010 FIFA worldcup helps in spreading awareness and increase viewership. Champions League and English Premier league are most popular among Indians. Spanish League is now attracting Indians – thanks to Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo.
4. Tennis: 7 crore – mostly among A class viewers.
5. Golf: 6.5 crore viewers – Tiger Woods is undisputed favourite golfer among Indians.
6. F1 Racing & Moto GP: 5.9 crore – Mostly young and high end viewers.
7. Hockey: National game is lagging behind in attracting viewers due to poor administration and performances. Just 3.5 crore viewers – thanks to ESPN.
8. Basketball, Baseball and Billiards are other popular sports for Indian viewers with 2-2.5 crore viewership.
Source: TAM and Business Today.
