Richest Female Tennis Players: Who Makes the Most Money?

If you love tennis and wonder how much the stars earn, you’re in the right place. This guide breaks down the biggest paychecks in women’s tennis, from prize money to brand deals. No jargon, just clear numbers and quick facts you can use right now.

Prize Money vs. Endorsements

Most people think a tennis player’s income comes only from winning matches. That’s only half the story. Career prize money is a big chunk, but endorsements often double or triple the total earnings. A player like Serena Williams earned over $94 million in prize money, but her sponsorships with Nike, Wilson, and other brands pushed her net worth past $250 million.

Endorsements depend on a player’s marketability – personality, social media following, and off‑court projects. Naomi Osaka, for example, earned about $10 million in prize money in 2023, but her deals with Nike, Shiseido and a few tech brands lifted her earnings to roughly $50 million that year.

When you compare the two, the ratio can be anywhere from 1:1 to 1:3. Younger players who are still building a prize‑money record often rely heavily on sponsorships to reach top‑earner status.

Current Top Earners

1. Serena Williams – Even after retirement, her legacy deals keep her at the top. Career prize money: $94 million. Estimated total earnings (including endorsements): $250 million+. Net worth: about $260 million.

2. Naomi Osaka – Rapidly climbing the list thanks to big wins and a strong brand image. Prize money: $12 million. Endorsements: $40 million+. Net worth: $50 million.

3. Venus Williams – Long career, solid sponsor base, and a fashion line. Prize money: $25 million. Endorsements: $30 million+. Net worth: $120 million.

4. Simona Halep – Consistent Grand Slam results and a growing off‑court profile. Prize money: $37 million. Endorsements: $15 million+. Net worth: $30 million.

5. Ashleigh Barty – Retired early but left a huge mark. Prize money: $13 million. Endorsements: $20 million+. Net worth: $25 million.

Other names you’ll see on the list include Garbiñe Muguruza, Petra Kvitová and Maria Sharapova (who now earns mostly from business ventures). The exact numbers shift each year as players win new titles or sign fresh deals.

So, what does this mean for a fan or aspiring player? If you’re tracking who makes the most money, look at both on‑court success and off‑court branding. Strong performance opens the door to big sponsors, and a smart brand partnership can boost earnings far beyond the prize money alone.

Keep an eye on the upcoming season – new Grand Slam winners often jump into the top‑10 earners quickly. And remember, the tennis world moves fast; today’s rising star could be tomorrow’s highest‑paid player.