Istanbul: Esports, once a niche interest, is now emerging as a major force in the global sports arena. With the potential to rival traditional sports icons like Ronaldo, Messi, or Jordan, esports is captivating millions worldwide and reshaping the future of competition.
According to Anadolu Agency, the global esports market was valued at approximately $2.09 billion in 2024, with expectations to grow to $9.29 billion by 2034. This growth is mirrored in viewership, with events like the League of Legends World Championship Final attracting nearly 7 million viewers globally, excluding China, and filling London's O2 Arena with over 14,000 fans.
Orlando Carlo Calumeno, chairman of the Istanbul Wildcats, Trkiye's first esports club, emphasizes the transformative nature of esports. He states, "The next Ronaldo, Messi, Michael Jordan will be in esports," highlighting the shift from traditional fields to digital arenas.
Gaming is increasingly becoming a dominant form of entertainment, especially among younger audiences. In the US, Deloitte's Digital Media Trends report indicates a growing preference for online experiences over real-world activities among Gen Z users. This trend is reflected globally, with the esports audience expected to surpass 640 million by 2025, encompassing both dedicated fans and casual viewers.
The esports industry is also creating significant economic opportunities. In 2024, the US video game industry supported nearly 350,000 jobs, contributing $101 billion in annual economic output, according to the Entertainment Software Association. Employment prospects in gaming are strong, with over 109,000 job openings posted worldwide in 2025, as reported by JobSpikr.
Calumeno underscores the inclusive nature of esports: "I don't care about the gender, I care about dedication, hard work, and how much they want to be successful." He advocates for equal recognition of female esports professionals, emphasizing their capability and dedication.
Esports' integration into global culture is further cemented by its upcoming inclusion in the Olympic Games. The International Olympic Committee (IOC) plans to launch the Olympic Esports Games in 2027 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, building on earlier initiatives like the Olympic Virtual Series and Olympic Esports Week.
Calumeno envisions a future where digital competitions attract massive audiences, rivaling traditional sports venues. "Imagine 10 kids facing each other, and an entire stadium of 20,000-40,000 people watching them - that is the new era of sports," he states, highlighting the potential for esports to reshape the global sports landscape.