While the Matildas may have lost to European champions England 3-1 in the FIFA Women's World Cup semi final last night, they enthralled the nation as 11.15 million Australians tuned in to watch the thrilling contest.
That represents around 44 per cent of Australia's population according to figures from the 2021 census, while the national average audience on Seven and 7plus was 7.13 million, making it the most watched TV program since the OzTAM audience measurement system started in 2001.
The broadcast audience included 6.17 million viewers on Seven, of whom 4.5 million were in the capital cities, and another 957,000 viewers on 7plus - a result that smashes records for the most streamed event ever in Australia.
Seven reportedly paid almost $5 million for the rights to broadcast the tournament that has been co-hosted by Australia and New Zealand, and is expected to generate a social and economic benefit worth $568 million to Australia.
"Australia was captivated last night as the Matildas played their hearts out and did us all proud," says Seven Melbourne managing director and head of network sport, Lewis Martin.
"Although their FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023 journey ended last night, the Matildas have re-written the history books and captured the hearts and minds of the nation with a performance that is sure to inspire generations of Australians for many years to come.
"Seven is beyond proud to have played a part in bringing Australia together around our screens, as the Matildas’ performance captured the Australian spirit like nothing we have seen in decades."
The Matildas will take on Sweden in the play-off for third place on Saturday, 19 August.
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