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Market research and data analytics firm YouGov has revealed that AFL has topped a survey as Australia’s most popular sport with 23% of respondents nationally backing the code.

41% of respondents in Victoria and Western Australia said AFL was their favourite sport, while NRL secured that backing of 26% of respondents in NSW and 16% in Queensland.

AFL was the fourth most popular sport in NSW behind rugby league, tennis and cricket.

Nationally, rugby league drew 13% of respondents as their favourite sport over tennis with 11%, cricket with 10% and football with 8%.

Commenting on the findings, AFL Chief Executive, Gillon McLachlan said there was “no doubt” AFL’s success was based on that grassroots activity.

McLachlan advised "the support we enjoy is a direct result of the passion and commitment of the thousands of hard-working volunteers at Auskick clinics and community clubs across Australia who continue to inspire kids and ensure our game is accessible, inclusive and fun for all."

28% of respondents said no sport listed in the survey was their favourite, which indicates more niche sports may be growing in popularity.

In related data, YouGov revealed female participation in AFL has doubled in the last six years, from 300,000 to 600,000.

NSW emerged as the state with the highest proportion of sports lovers.

Recent figures from Ausplay show 8.5 million Australian adults and 3.4 million children play some form of sport, supported by 2.9 million volunteers in community sport.

Main image: Melbourne Demons fans at the 2021 AFL Grand Final at Perth's Optus Stadium. Credit: Optus Stadium.

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