Breaking Down the Highest-Paid Female Athletes
Forbes recently released their list of the world’s highest-paid female athletes and this year it’s dominated by international tennis professionals. With millions of dollars coming in from brand endorsements; we take a closer look at the marketability of the top performers.
Maria Sharapova: As the world’s highest-paid female athlete for the 11th straight year, Maria Sharapova e
arned over $29.7 million with over $23 million coming from endorsements. Known for being interested in fashion and jewelry, Sharapova is currently affiliated with major style brands like Avon, Cole Haan, Nike and TAG Heuer. Additional endorsements include deals with Evian, Porsche, Samsung and her most recent addition, American Express. Furthermore, she was able to pair her love of fashion and her advocacy for breast cancer awareness when she joined forces with CFDA Fashion Targets Breast Cancer in 2014. As an entrepreneur, Sharapova launched her own line of candy, Sugarpova. In the past year, the brand has expanded to over 30 countries and sales have doubled to more than three million bags of candy. With over 15 million likes, Sharapova is currently ranked as the 22nd most popular athlete on Facebook.
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Serena Williams: As this year’s Wimbledon champion, Serena Williams sits as the world’s second highest-paid female athlete. Currently, Williams earns approximately $24.6 million with over $13 million coming from her endorsement deals. Known on the court for her fashion sense and eccentric outfit choices, Williams is currently affiliated with style brands like Nike, OPI and HSN, while off the court, Williams is a part-owner of the Miami Dolphins. Dedicated to youth development, Williams helped construct the Serena Williams Secondary School in Matooni Kenya in 2008 and is actively involved with the Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater L.A. and Inland chapter. With over 5 million followers, Williams is currently the most popular female on Twitter.
Caroline Wozniacki: Danish tennis player and model, Caroline Wozniacki ranks third on Forbes’ list as she earned $14.6 million with over $11 million in endorsement deals. Wozniacki is currently affiliated with over 11 brands including Adidas, Rolex and Lavazza coffee. As a foodie and chocolate enthusiast, Wozniacki signed a deal with Godiva in February 2015 and became the company’s first sponsored athlete. Also interested in soccer, swimming and general fitness activities, Wozniacki completed the 2014 New York Marathon with a time of 3:26:33, which was good enough to help her qualify for the 2016 Boston Marathon. Off the court, Wozniacki is actively involved with charities dedicated to education, women’s issues and physical disabilities.
Ana Ivanovic: Not only is Ana Ivanovic ranked as one of the top tennis players in the world, she is also one of the highest-paid females. With over $6.5 million of her $8 million salary coming from endorsements, Ivanovic is affiliated with 7 brands including Yonex, Rolex and Samsung. Furthermore, Ivanovic signed a lifetime contract with Adidas and will continue to act as an ambassador for the brand even after retiring from tennis. Off the court, Ivanovic studies finance at a university in Belgrade and also acts as a national ambassador for UNICEF in Serbia. In her work with UNICEF, Ivanovic dedicates a majority of her time to youth development and education.
