New Orleans Saints and New Orleans Pelicans owner Gayle Benson has been named the “Most Powerful Woman in Sports” by Forbes.
The new annual ranking honors 25 leaders who they say are transforming one of the world’s most influential industries, shaping strategy, driving innovation and expanding the role of women across the sports economy.
Benson placed first on a list that includes WNBA star Caitlin Clark, 23-time Grand Slam tennis champion Serena Williams and University of South Carolina national champions women’s basketball coach Dawn Staley amongst others.
Forbes writes:
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.”
READ MORE:Saints & Pelicans owner Gayle Benson named ‘Most Powerful Woman in Sports” by Forbes
