Coco Gauff Tops Forbes’ List of Highest-Paid Female Athletes in 2024
In a groundbreaking year for American tennis sensation Coco Gauff, Forbes has revealed that she raked in an estimated $34.4 million, solidifying her position as the top-earning female athlete of the year. Gauff’s earnings place her just behind Naomi Osaka ($57.3 million) and Serena Williams ($45.9 million) on Forbes’ all-time list.
The Breakdown of Gauff’s Earnings
Of Gauff’s $34.4 million in earnings, $9.4 million came from her on-court performance, including a record prize purse at the WTA Finals Riyadh. The remaining $25 million stemmed from her extensive sponsorship deals. Gauff’s sponsorship portfolio is a who’s who of top brands, including Bose, American Eagle, and Carol’s Daughter.
Additionally, in 2024, Gauff expanded her list of partners to include Carol’s Daughter, Fanatics, and Naked Juice, further cementing her status as a highly marketable athlete in the world of tennis.
Women’s Tennis Dominance
Women’s tennis players have historically dominated earnings lists, and the trend continues with Forbes’ latest rankings. Gauff’s earnings trail only behind Naomi Osaka and Serena Williams, showcasing the financial prowess of female tennis stars. In fact, 11 of the Top 20 highest-paid female athletes in Forbes’ list are WTA players.
Gender Disparities in Sports Earnings
Forbes’ list not only highlights the impressive earnings of female athletes but also underscores the persistent gap between the earnings of top female and male athletes. While the Top 20 women in 2024 amassed a total of $258 million, Cristiano Ronaldo, the highest-paid athlete overall, pocketed $260 million in the same year.
Despite the strides made in pay increases, marketing opportunities, and business ventures for women’s athletes, there is still work to be done to bridge the gap between male and female sports earnings.
Forbes’ Top 10 Highest-Paid Female Athletes in 2024
- Coco Gauff, Tennis – $34.4M ($9.4M on-field, $25M off-field)
- Iga Swiatek, Tennis – $23.8M ($8.8M on-field, $15M off-field)
- Eileen Gu, Freestyle Skiing – $22.1M ($0.1M on-field, $22M off-field)
- Zheng Qinwen, Tennis – $20.6M ($5.6M on-field, $15M off-field)
- Aryna Sabalenka, Tennis – $18.7M ($9.7M on-field, $9M off-field)
- Naomi Osaka, Tennis – $12.9M ($0.9M on-field, $12M off-field)
- Emma Raducanu, Tennis – $12.9M ($0.9M on-field, $12M off-field)
- Nelly Korda, Golf – $12.5M ($4.5M on-field, $8M off-field)
- Venus Williams, Tennis – $12.1M ($0.1M on-field, $12M off-field)
- Simone Biles, Gymnastics – $11.2M ($0.2M on-field, $11M off-field)
Overall, Gauff’s impressive earnings in 2024 not only solidify her position as a top tennis player but also highlight the financial success that female athletes can achieve in the sports world.
The Rise of Coco Gauff in Tennis
Coco Gauff’s meteoric rise in tennis has been nothing short of remarkable. Bursting onto the scene as a teenager, Gauff quickly captured the hearts of fans around the world with her exceptional talent, determination, and poise on the court. Her impressive performances at Grand Slam events and other prestigious tournaments have not only earned her numerous titles but also catapulted her into the spotlight as one of the sport’s brightest stars.
What sets Gauff apart from her peers is not only her skillful play but also her marketability. Brands have been quick to recognize her star power, leading to an array of lucrative sponsorship deals that have significantly contributed to her earnings. Gauff’s ability to balance her on-court success with a strong off-court presence has solidified her status as a role model for aspiring athletes, especially young girls looking to make their mark in the world of sports.
The Impact of Women in Tennis
Women’s tennis has long been at the forefront of gender equality in sports, with players like Serena Williams, Naomi Osaka, and Coco Gauff leading the charge. These athletes have not only shattered records and barriers on the court but also in terms of earnings, visibility, and influence off the court. The success of female tennis players in Forbes’ list of highest-paid athletes is a testament to the growing recognition and support for women in sports.
As more female athletes like Gauff continue to excel in their respective fields, the landscape of sports is gradually shifting towards greater inclusivity, diversity, and opportunities for women. The success of women in tennis serves as a beacon of inspiration for athletes across all sports, showcasing the immense talent, determination, and marketability that female athletes bring to the table.
Bridging the Gender Pay Gap in Sports
While the earnings of female athletes have seen significant growth in recent years, there is still a noticeable gap between the pay of male and female athletes. The disparity in earnings between the highest-paid male athlete and the highest-paid female athlete, as highlighted by Forbes’ list, underscores the need for continued efforts to address and rectify these discrepancies.
Organizations, sponsors, and stakeholders in the sports industry must work together to ensure that female athletes receive equal pay, opportunities, and recognition for their accomplishments. By promoting gender equality and championing the achievements of female athletes, the sports world can create a more equitable and inclusive environment for all athletes, regardless of gender.
The Future of Women in Sports
As athletes like Coco Gauff pave the way for future generations of female athletes, the future of women in sports looks brighter than ever. With increasing visibility, support, and opportunities, women in sports are poised to achieve even greater success, both on and off the field.
By celebrating the achievements of female athletes, breaking down barriers, and advocating for equal treatment and representation, the sports industry can create a more level playing field for all athletes. The success of Coco Gauff and her peers is not only a testament to their talent and hard work but also a sign of the changing tide in sports towards greater inclusivity, diversity, and equality.
Overall, Coco Gauff’s position as the highest-paid female athlete in 2024 is a reflection of the growing influence and earning potential of women in sports. With her talent, charisma, and marketability, Gauff continues to inspire a new generation of athletes and demonstrate the limitless possibilities that exist for women in the world of sports.
