It was the third time that the Netherlands hosted the Women's World Cup after 1986 and 1998.

The Netherlands won the tournament for a seventh time after defeating Australia 2–0 in the final.

[2] Defending champions Argentina won the third place match by defeating the United States 2–1.

[4] Each of the continental champions from five confederations and the host nation receive an automatic berth.

In addition to the six highest placed teams at the Semifinals of the 2012–13 FIH Hockey World League not already qualified, the following twelve teams, shown with final pre-tournament rankings, competed in this tournament.