In a significant year for female sports stars in Ireland, recent research sponsored by KPMG indicates that 92% of participants believe that female sports stars have a positive impact on Irish society.
The year 2024 was extraordinary for Irish female sports stars, and a new study by KPMG shows that their achievements are motivating a generation, with 61% of respondents inspired by their accomplishments on a global scale. This motivation often translates into action, with 30% of respondents taking up a sport or increasing their physical activity as a result. KPMG celebrated this impactful year of sports at the National Gallery of Ireland, featuring KPMG brand ambassadors Rachael Blackmore, Leona Maguire, and Rhasidat Adeleke.
The KPMG research, carried out by Bounce Insights, highlights how the growing visibility and support for women’s sports has a significant positive effect on Irish society. The study found that 92% of respondents agree that female sports stars have a positive influence on society, and 85% say they are personally inspired by KPMG ambassadors Rachael Blackmore, Leona Maguire, and Rhasidat Adeleke. Parents are more likely to support the positive societal impact of female sports stars, and 68% of respondents believe that the visibility of female athletes provides inspirational role models for children. Additionally, 62% of respondents believe that the prominence of female athletes promotes gender equality and challenges stereotypes both in sports and beyond.
KPMG has been a long-standing advocate of women’s sports in Ireland, striving for greater equality in this area. Investing in talented young individuals is a core value of the firm. From supporting individual athletes like Leona Maguire, Rachael Blackmore, and Rhasidat Adeleke, to sponsoring the KPMG Women’s Irish Open since its revival in 2022, KPMG is deeply committed to empowering women in sports.
Seamus Hand, Managing Partner at KPMG Ireland, expressed his pride in supporting Rachael, Rhasidat, and Leona, who have all had an exceptional year as ambassadors. Their success showcases the transformative power of sports in inspiring the next generation, fostering inclusivity, and driving societal change. KPMG is dedicated to nurturing talent in business and all fields of excellence, and these athletes align with the company’s values. While acknowledging the incredible year for women’s sports in Ireland, Seamus Hand also emphasized the ongoing work needed to move towards true equality for Ireland’s female athletes in 2025.
2024 has been a remarkable year for women in Irish sports, with KPMG’s ambassadors leading the way in this success. Rhasidat Adeleke captured the nation’s attention with her exceptional performances at Paris 2024 and beyond, breaking multiple Irish records. Rhasidat currently holds seven individual Irish records across different disciplines.
Looking back on her sporting achievements in 2024, KPMG Ambassador Rhasidat Adeleke expressed her pride in contributing to the success of Irish female athletes and hopes to inspire the next generation alongside her fellow athletes. She looks forward to the opportunities that 2025 will bring.
In 2024, KPMG ambassador Leona Maguire made history as the first Irish woman to win a Ladies European Tour event. Her victory at the Aramco Team Series showcased the excitement and inspiration she generates, as seen in the record attendance at the 2024 KPMG Women’s Irish Open.
Rachael Blackmore continued to break barriers in horseracing in 2024, setting new records and achieving milestones. Her dedication and resilience serve as a shining example for young people in Ireland.
