Top 10 Highest Paid Female Athletes in 2026

Women's sports continue to grow at an impressive speed, not only in fan following but also in financial power. Prize money, sponsorship deals, appearance fees, and personal brand value have all increased sharply. As a result, the discussion around the highest paid female athletes in 2026 has become more important than ever. Compared to previous years, more sports are represented, and athletes are earning from multiple sources beyond competition.

In 2026, the combined earnings of the top female athletes crossed new records. Tennis remains the strongest contributor, but golf, skiing, basketball, and other individual sports also play a major role. The rise of global endorsements and social media influence has helped many athletes turn success on the field into long-term financial growth. This article looks at the highest paid female athletes in 2026, with a detailed explanation of how each athlete earned her income.

List of 10 Highest Paid Female Athletes in 2026

10. Jessica Pegula - $12.3 Million

Jessica Pegula had a consistent and professional season, which helped her remain among the highest paid female athletes in 2026. She won three singles titles across different court surfaces, proving her all-round ability. Pegula also qualified for the WTA Finals for the fourth consecutive year, showing her reliability at the top level of women's tennis.

Off the court, Pegula continued to build her personal brand. She signed endorsement deals with Hyatt and Maev dog food. In addition, she co-launched a tennis-focused podcast, The Player's Box, alongside other well-known players. These business ventures played a big role in keeping her earnings strong and stable.

9. Elena Rybakina - $12.5 Million

Elena Rybakina secured her place among the highest paid female athletes in 2026 with an outstanding year on the court. Her biggest achievement was winning the WTA Finals, where she earned the largest single-event prize in women's tennis history. This victory alone boosted her on-field income significantly.

Rybakina also recorded over 500 aces during the season, highlighting her powerful serve and aggressive playing style. Although she represents Kazakhstan internationally, her global fan base continues to grow. While her off-field earnings are lower than some peers, her strong tournament results ensure her financial position remains secure.

8. Naomi Osaka - $12.5 Million

Naomi Osaka's return to competitive form played a key role in her ranking among the highest paid female athletes in 2026. She won her first WTA title in four years and reached the semifinals of the US Open, showing that she remains a major force in women's tennis.

Osaka's real strength lies in her marketability. Even during quieter seasons, her endorsement deals with global brands generate massive income. Her influence goes beyond sports, making her one of the most recognizable faces in women's athletics. This balance between performance and branding keeps her earnings among the highest.

7. Nelly Korda - $13 Million

Nelly Korda continued her strong presence among the highest paid female athletes in 2026, even though her on-course results were quieter compared to previous seasons. Her consistent performances on the LPGA Tour ensured steady prize money.

Korda's main earnings came from sponsorships. She added EY to her growing list of partners, which already includes major companies like Cisco and Delta. Her clean image, professionalism, and global appeal have made her one of the most trusted player in women's golf.

6. Madison Keys - $13.4 Million

Madison Keys enjoyed one of the most memorable seasons of her career, helping her rise among the highest paid female athletes in 2026. Her Australian Open victory was historic, marking a long-awaited Grand Slam triumph.

This success pushed her into the WTA top five for the first time. Off the court, Keys signed deals with major brands such as IBM and MassMutual. Her mix of experience, resilience, and renewed success made her one of the standout earners of the year.

5. Qinwen Zheng - $22.6 Million

Qinwen Zheng stands out among the highest paid female athletes in 2026 due to her massive off-field income. Despite limited match play because of injury, her popularity in China remains extremely high.

Her Olympic gold medal win boosted her commercial value, leading to sponsorships with brands like Audi and Dior. Zheng's earnings show how national influence and marketing power can sometimes outweigh on-field activity in modern sports.

4. Eileen Gu - $23.1 Million

Eileen Gu is a perfect example of how athletes can dominate the highest paid female athletes in 2026 list through endorsements. Her prize money from skiing competitions is small compared to her commercial income.

Gu represents China and enjoys massive popularity across Asia and the United States. Her partnerships with luxury and lifestyle brands have turned her into a global icon, proving that success is no longer limited to competition results alone.

3. Iga Swiatek - $25.1 Million

Iga Swiatek continued her dominance in women's tennis, placing her firmly among the highest paid female athletes in 2026. Her Wimbledon victory and consistent performances across surfaces made her one of the most successful players of the year.

Swiatek has also been vocal about improving revenue sharing in tennis, highlighting her leadership off the court. Her endorsement portfolio continues to grow alongside her achievements.

2. Aryna Sabalenka - $30 Million

Aryna Sabalenka became one of the rare athletes to reach $30 million, securing her place among the highest paid female athletes in 2026. She finished the year as world number one and won multiple major titles.

Her balanced income from prize money and endorsements shows how elite performance directly translates into financial success. Sabalenka's power game and consistent results have made her a global star.

1. Coco Gauff - $33 Million

Coco Gauff leads the list of the highest paid female athletes in 2026, setting new standards for young athletes worldwide. At just 21 years old, she won the French Open and reached multiple finals, confirming her place at the top of women's tennis.

Her off-field success is equally impressive. Endorsements with major global brands and her own management company have helped her build a powerful business empire. Gauff's rise shows the future direction of women's sports earnings.