NEW ORLEANS (WVUE) - Gayle Benson, who owns the NFL’s New Orleans Saints and the NBA’s New Orleans Pelicans, has been recognized by Forbes as the most powerful woman in American sports.
Benson claimed the No. 1 position on Forbes’ annual America’s Most Powerful Women in Sports list, a ranking that highlights influential figures across the industry—from athletes and executives to entrepreneurs and investors.
Here’s what Forbes said about Benson:
“Gayle Benson made history in 2018 when she became the only woman to own both an NFL and NBA franchise, taking control of the New Orleans Saints and the New Orleans Pelicans after the death of her husband, Tom. The two teams now carry a combined valuation of $8.35 billion while Benson herself has an estimated net worth of $7.9 billion. She has been central to the NFL’s international ambitions, with the Saints becoming the first franchise with marketing rights in France and partnering with the Paris Musketeers of the European League of Football (ELF). Benson was also instrumental in bringing Super Bowl LIX to New Orleans, according to NFL commissioner Roger Goodell, who said in February that ‘in business, philanthropy and football, Gayle is a leader, always advocating for the Saints and her native city.’”
Among others recognized in Forbes’ rankings are FanDuel CEO Amy Howe (No. 2), rising WNBA star Caitlin Clark (No. 4), and tennis legend Serena Williams (No. 11).
CLICK HERE TO SEE THE FULL LIST.
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