Naomi Osaka has become the highest-paid female athlete ever. According to Forbes, she will make $37.4 million in 2020.
Not only is that historic, but she has also dethroned Serena Williams on the money charts. Serena Williams was the highest-paid athlete for the last four years.
Osaka, who is only 22 is likely to be one of the highest-paid athletes for many years. With Maria Sharapova retired and Serena Williams approaching retirement, it’s Brand Osaka’s turn.
To be honest, it’s not surprising. Osaka, who now represents Japan after giving up her US citizenship in 2019, is a star in Japan. Japan is a developed economy with many companies willing to sponsor top athletes.
With the 2021 Olympics in Tokyo, Japanese stars such as Kei Nishikori and Naomi Osaka are in high demand as brands are interested in signing them to represent their brands on the world stage.
Osaka is represented by powerhouse IMG. IMG also represents Maria Sharapova, Kei Nishikori, and Serena Williams.
Osaka’s Sponsors List
Osaka has sponsorship deals with Japanese brands as well as global brands such as Nike. When her previous shoe and apparel deal with Under Armor came up for renewal, Nike had stiff competition with Under Armor and Japanese fast retailer Uniqlo before prevailing.
In an unusual move for Nike, Osaka was allowed to wear patches of other brands on her clothing. I am sure that was part of the concession Nike had to make to sign up Osaka.
Osaka’s sponsors include:
- Nike
- Nissin
- Nissan
- Citizen
- Yonex
- WOWOW
- ANA (All Nippon Airways)
- Shiseido
- Mastercard
Serena Dethroned, Not For The First Time
Serena Williams has won more grand slam titles than Osaka. But Serena has had difficulty converting her on-court accomplishments into lucrative sponsorship deals to keep the top spot.
Between 2011 and 2015, Maria Sharapova earned more than Serena with fewer grand slam titles. This goes to show that winning major titles alone does not guarantee the top spot on tennis’ money list.
Osaka is Humble and Likeable
Osaka is very shy. and often gives short answers to interview questions. She has talked about how she is lost for words when she meets someone for the first time. But she has grown immensely as a person and is well-liked on the tour.
Sponsors like her ability to connect with young fans. Osaka is active on Instagram and Twitter and engages with fans frequently.