In a landmark year for women's sports, the earnings of female athletes have surged to unprecedented levels. Eleven women surpassed the $10 million mark in earnings for the first time, with tennis star Coco Gauff leading the charge. The top 20 highest-paid female athletes collectively earned over $258 million in 2024, marking a 15% increase from the previous year. Despite these gains, their total remains less than 12% of what the top 20 male athletes earned. This article explores the rising tide of financial success in women's sports and the challenges that still lie ahead.
Breakthrough Earnings in Tennis and Golf
The world of tennis and golf witnessed significant milestones in 2024. Coco Gauff, at just 20 years old, achieved an estimated $34.4 million, placing her among the highest-paid female athletes ever. Her on-field earnings of $9.4 million were bolstered by off-field endorsements totaling $25 million. Similarly, Nelly Korda in golf amassed $12.5 million, including $4.5 million in prize money. Thai golfer Jeeno Thitikul broke records with a $6.1 million single-season prize, showcasing the growing financial clout of women in individual sports.
Tennis continues to dominate the list of top-earning female athletes. Coco Gauff's exceptional performance on and off the court has not only elevated her personal brand but also highlighted the potential for substantial earnings in women's tennis. Gauff's victories in major tournaments like the China Open and WTA Finals in Riyadh, along with lucrative endorsement deals, underscore the sport's increasing commercial appeal. Meanwhile, golf is catching up, with players like Nelly Korda and Jeeno Thitikul achieving remarkable financial success. Thitikul's record-breaking season and Korda's consistent performance have paved the way for higher purses and increased visibility for women's golf.
Expanding Opportunities in Basketball and Other Sports
Beyond tennis and golf, other sports are also witnessing a surge in earnings for female athletes. Caitlin Clark, a rookie in the WNBA, earned an estimated $8.1 million this year, driven by endorsements rather than playing salary. The WNBA saw record highs in attendance and viewership, partly due to Clark's stellar performances. Additionally, new leagues and investments are emerging in various sports, signaling a broader shift towards recognizing and rewarding female athletes.
The WNBA's growth in popularity and revenue is a testament to the expanding opportunities for female basketball players. Caitlin Clark's rapid rise from college stardom to professional success exemplifies the changing landscape. With more media attention and sponsorships, the WNBA is positioning itself as a viable and lucrative platform for top talent. Moreover, new women's leagues in hockey, softball, and basketball are sprouting up, offering fresh avenues for athletes to showcase their skills and earn competitive salaries. These developments suggest that the future holds even greater potential for financial success across multiple sports disciplines.