Originally published at: https://theglobalsportsmarket.com/ball-sports/ice-hockey/2025/why-is-ice-hockey-so-popular-in-the-global-sports-market/
**1. Thrilling Speed & Physicality Players skate 20–30 km/h (12–18 mph) while handling the puck at 160+ km/h (100+ mph) shot speeds. Collisions, fights (in some leagues), and acrobatic saves make it one of the most intense spectator sports. **2. Major League Dominance (NHL) The National Hockey League (NHL) is the world’s top league, with 32 teams (7 in Canada, 25 in the U.S.). The Stanley Cup…