Naomi Osaka, tennis player (Japan)

A 24-year-old tennis star, Naomi Osaka, took the first place on the list. Last year, the tennis player earned more than $57 million, with only $2.3 million coming from her sports achievements. The rest of the sum came from her own commercial projects. The sports marketing icon collaborates with more than 20 brands, including Nissan, MasterCard, Procter & Gamble, and Louis Vuitton. In addition, in 2021, Naomi Osaka continued issuing the collection of NFT tokens. What is more, the athlete has launched vegan skincare brand KINLÒ, which has also become a source of additional income.

Serena Williams, tennis player (US)

According to last year’s results, Serena Williams, a legendary tennis player, became richer by almost $46 million. Notably, playing tennis, the athlete earned less than $1 million. The fact is that advertising is the main source of her income. The US player signed contracts with Nike, manufacturer of sports drinks Gatorade, and the direct broadcasting company DirecTV. In addition, Serena has her own venture fund through which she invests in 66 startups. What is more, in 2021, a film about Serena’s father "King Richard" was released. Serena was among its producers.

Venus Williams, tennis player (US)

Venus Williams, a famous tennis player, is ranked third on the list after her younger sister Serena Williams. Notably, the gap between their incomes is quite big. In 2021, a multiple winner of the Wimbledon tournament and the Olympic Games, Venus Williams, earned a bit more than $11 million. However, she got as a prize only $300,000 . Like her sister, Venus receives the better part of her income from business. She is the owner of the EleVen sportswear brand. She also receives some money from plant-based food company Happy Vikings and design firm V Starr.

Simone Biles, artistic gymnast (US)

Simone Biles is often called the greatest gymnast in history. Notably, last year, she had to withdraw from the Olympics all-around gymnastics competition. Curiously, the incident only added to the popularity of the 24-year-old athlete. She received numerous offers from sponsors. Last autumn, Simone Biles was announced as Cerebral official Chief Impact Officer. The company specializes in online mental health support. In addition, she issued her own collection of NFT tokens. However, participation in the 35-city gymnastics show in the US was the main event of the year. As a result, the gymnast earned over $10 million by means of commercial projects.

Garbiñe Muguruza, tennis player (Spain)

Garbiñe Muguruza, a former world number 1 tennis player in singles matches, closes the list of top 5 highest-paid athletes according to Forbes. Last year, the 28-year-old Spanish athlete earned $8.8 million. One-third of the sum Garbiñe Muguruza received as a prize. The year 2021 brought her success in the professional sphere. Garbiñe Muguruza won three tournaments, thus grabbing the third position among players of the Women's Tennis Association. Her professional success allowed her to sign advertising contracts with Nivea and Jaguar.