The landscape of women’s sports has transformed dramatically over the past decade, with female athletes reaching new heights in both competitive achievement and financial success. While tennis continues to dominate the earnings charts, stars from golf, skiing, and other sports are making their mark. Here’s a detailed look at the top 10 highest-paid female athletes of all time, based on recent records and career peaks.
1. Naomi Osaka (Tennis)
Naomi Osaka holds the record for the highest annual earnings ever by a female athlete, peaking at $57.3 million in 2021, with the vast majority coming from endorsements with brands like Nike, Panasonic, and Louis Vuitton. Her influence extends beyond the court, driving conversations about mental health and athlete advocacy.
2. Serena Williams (Tennis)
Serena Williams, a global icon and 23-time Grand Slam champion, reached annual earnings of $45.9 million at her peak. Her career prize money and endorsements with brands such as Nike and Wilson have made her one of the most financially successful athletes in history.
3. Coco Gauff (Tennis)
The 20-year-old American sensation has rapidly climbed the ranks, earning $34.4 million in 2024 alone—$9.4 million from prize money and $25 million from endorsements with brands like L’Oréal, New Balance, and Naked Juice. Gauff’s star power and marketability have positioned her as a leader of the new generation.
4. Iga Świątek (Tennis)
The Polish Grand Slam champion earned $23.8 million in 2024, with $8.8 million from prize money and $15 million from endorsements with Rolex, Porsche, and Lancôme. Her consistent dominance on the court has translated into significant commercial success.
5. Eileen Gu (Freestyle Skiing)
Eileen Gu, representing China, brought in $22.1 million—almost entirely from endorsements with luxury brands such as Louis Vuitton and Tiffany & Co. Her unique cross-cultural appeal has made her a global marketing phenomenon.
6. Zheng Qinwen (Tennis)
Zheng Qinwen, one of China’s fastest-rising tennis stars, earned $20.6 million in 2024, including $15 million from partnerships with Audi, Lancôme, and Vivo. She’s drawing comparisons to Li Na for her rapid ascent and commercial value.
7. Aryna Sabalenka (Tennis)
The Belarusian powerhouse made $18.7 million in 2024, split nearly evenly between prize money and endorsements with Nike and Oakberry. Her aggressive play and Grand Slam victories have boosted her global profile.
8. Emma Raducanu (Tennis)
Despite injury setbacks, the British tennis prodigy earned $12.9 million in 2024, thanks to her continued appeal to sponsors like Dior, British Airways, and HSBC. Her US Open triumph remains a landmark moment in sports marketing.
9. Nelly Korda (Golf)
The American golf star earned $12.5 million in 2024, making her the highest-paid female golfer of the year, with significant endorsements from Nike and Goldman Sachs. Her success on the course and in the marketplace is reshaping women’s golf.
10. Venus Williams (Tennis)
Venus Williams, a trailblazer for equal prize money in tennis, has amassed over $11 million in peak annual earnings, with a career spanning more than two decades. Her influence extends well beyond the sport, advocating for gender equality and business ventures.
The Power of Endorsements
A common thread among these top earners is the outsized role of endorsements and sponsorships. For many, off-court or off-field deals far exceed their competition winnings, reflecting the growing commercial value of women’s sports. Brands are increasingly recognizing the global appeal and influence of female athletes.
Tennis: The Dominant Force
Tennis remains the most lucrative sport for female athletes, largely due to equal prize money at Grand Slam events and the sport’s strong global following. Nine out of the top ten highest-paid female athletes are tennis players, underscoring the sport’s unique position in driving both competitive and commercial success.
Looking Ahead
With rising stars like Coco Gauff and Iga Świątek leading the way, and established icons such as Serena and Venus Williams continuing to inspire, the financial landscape for female athletes is set to grow even further. As sponsorships and media coverage expand, the next generation of women in sports is poised to reach even greater heights.
