Caitlin Clark Makes History as Highest-Paid Female Basketball Player
In a groundbreaking achievement, Caitlin Clark, the talented point guard of the Indiana Fever, has debuted on the list of highest-paid female athletes in the world. According to Sportico’s annual rankings, Clark earned an impressive $11.1 million in 2024, securing the 10th spot on the coveted list.
Clark’s remarkable earnings can be attributed to her record-breaking rookie season with the Indiana Fever, where she earned an annual salary of $76,535. However, it was her lucrative endorsement deals that catapulted her to the top 10. Clark signed over 10 commercial deals, including a prestigious eight-year contract with Nike worth more than $3 million per year.
The 22-year-old basketball sensation joins an elite group of female athletes who have broken barriers in their respective sports. Tennis stars dominated the list, with Coco Gauff topping the rankings for the second consecutive year with a staggering $30.4 million in earnings.
The list, which features 15 of the world’s highest-paid female athletes, saw a significant increase in earnings, with the top 15 athletes collectively earning an estimated $221 million in 2024, a 27% increase from the previous year.
Clark’s achievement is a testament to her hard work, dedication, and marketability. As the lone basketball player on the list, she has paved the way for future generations of female basketball players.
The top 10 highest-paid female athletes in the world are:
Coco Gauff (Tennis) – $30.4 million
Eileen Gu (Skiing) – $22.1 million
Iga Swiatek (Tennis) – $21.4 million
Zheng Qinwen (Tennis) – $20.6 million
Aryna Sabalenka (Tennis) – $17.7 million
Naomi Osaka (Tennis) – $15.9 million
Emma Raducanu (Tennis) – $14.7 million
Nelly Korda (Golf) – $14.4 million
Simone Biles (Gymnastics) – $11.1 million
Caitlin Clark (Basketball) – $11.1 million
Clark’s historic achievement serves as an inspiration to young female athletes around the world, demonstrating that with perseverance and talent, they too can break barriers and achieve greatness in their respective sports.
