Caitlin Clark makes list of highest-paid female athletes
Basketball standout Caitlin Clark has made her debut on the list of the highest-paid female athletes, with tennis prodigy Coco Gauff retaining the top spot for the second consecutive year, as reported by Sportico’s 2024 rankings.
Gauff, the US tennis sensation, had a stellar year both on and off the court, raking in a total of $30.4 million in earnings. A significant portion of her income, $9.4 million, was generated through her performances on the tennis court, while the rest came from lucrative endorsement deals.
The 20-year-old athlete achieved notable victories such as winning the women’s doubles title at the French Open and claiming the singles championship at the prestigious WTA Finals. Gauff also made history by becoming the youngest flag bearer for Team USA at the Olympics and the first tennis player to carry the flag for the United States.
Skier Eileen Gu, representing China, secured the second spot on the list with earnings totaling $22.1 million, primarily derived from endorsements. Meanwhile, a trio of American athletes rounded out the top ten rankings.
Golf sensation Nelly Korda claimed the eighth position with annual earnings of $14.4 million. Korda had a remarkable season, clinching her second major title and dominating the LPGA Tour with six additional victories.
Renowned gymnast Simone Biles earned $11.1 million, solidifying her status as one of the greatest gymnasts of all time. Biles made a triumphant return at the 2024 Games in Paris, securing three gold medals and a silver medal, further solidifying her legacy in the sport.
Rookie sensation Caitlin Clark, a standout in the WNBA, also made her mark on the list with earnings of $11.1 million. The 22-year-old garnered attention and support throughout the league, contributing to its growth in popularity. Clark received the Rookie of the Year award and was named to the All-WNBA first team, setting multiple records during her rookie season.
Tennis continued to dominate the rankings, with eight additional players making it to the top 15 alongside Gauff. Players such as Iga Świątek, Zheng Qinwen, and Aryna Sabalenka secured spots in the top five, showcasing the sport’s influence in the world of female athletics.
In conclusion, the list of the highest-paid female athletes for 2024 highlights the exceptional talent and achievements of women across various sports, showcasing their skill, determination, and success both on and off the field.
