As 2025 unfolds, the world of sports continues to be reshaped by powerful and influential female athletes. In a groundbreaking year, Coco Gauff has emerged as the highest-earning female athlete, taking the top spot with an impressive $30 million. This list, compiled from various revenue streams including endorsements, winnings, and sponsorships, highlights the growing impact and commercial appeal of women in sports.
Coco Gauff: The New Face of Tennis
At just 19 years old, tennis sensation Coco Gauff has skyrocketed to the top of the earnings list with a total of $30 million. Gauff’s meteoric rise in the tennis world, coupled with her lucrative endorsement deals with major brands like Rolex, Wilson, and New Balance, have solidified her place as not only a rising star on the court but also a marketable force off it. Her sponsorships, combined with her success at the Grand Slams and other tournaments, have made her the highest-earning female athlete for 2025.
The Absence of Sha’Carri Richardson
Interestingly, sprinter Sha’Carri Richardson, who has been one of the most talked-about athletes in the track and field world over the past year, is notably absent from the top-earning list. Despite her impressive performances and growing popularity, Richardson’s sponsorship deals and overall earnings have yet to reach the levels required for inclusion in the top 10. This highlights a gap in the commercial exploitation of her potential, which could change as her career continues to develop.
Rising Stars and Endorsements
Alongside Gauff, other notable athletes who dominate the list include Serena Williams, Naomi Osaka, and Simone Biles. These athletes, with their powerful personal brands and on-field accomplishments, continue to set records not only in their respective sports but also in the world of endorsements. As female athletes gain more recognition and visibility, the financial rewards continue to follow.
The Future of Female Athlete Earnings
The growing commercial appeal of female athletes is a trend that is likely to continue in the coming years. With increasing opportunities for sponsorships, media coverage, and global recognition, more women will join the ranks of high-earning athletes. As the gap in earnings between male and female athletes narrows, the financial future looks brighter than ever for women in sports.