The landscape of athletics has undergone a seismic shift. Once a realm dominated by male superstars, women are now at the forefront, not just in terms of athletic prowess but also financial clout. 

From the pristine tracks to lucrative endorsement deals, female athletes are rewriting the script on wealth creation. 

In this piece, BOUNCE  explores, a select group of women who have ascended to the pinnacle of financial success within the sport.

10. Tobi Amusan (Net Worth) – $1.5 million

Age: 27

Nationality: Nigeria

Source of Wealth: Athletics, Sponsorships & Endorsements 

Tobi Amusan has redefined the boundaries of Nigerian athletics. The world record holder in the 100 metres hurdles has transcended the sport, becoming a symbol of national pride and a commercial force.

Her meteoric rise culminated in a historic moment when she shattered the world record at the 2022 World Championships in Eugene, Oregon. This feat, coupled with her Commonwealth and African titles, has solidified her status as a global sporting icon.  

Financial success has followed Amusan’s athletic triumphs. With an estimated net worth of $1.5 million as of June 2024, she is not only the richest female track and field athlete in Nigeria but also one of the most affluent in the world. Her earnings are a testament to her dominance on the track and her growing commercial appeal.  

Endorsement deals have been a cornerstone of Amusan’s financial success. Partnerships with prominent brands such as Premium Trust Bank, Globacom Nigeria, Flutterwave, and VISA have elevated her to the pantheon of Nigeria’s most marketable athletes. Her influence extends beyond the realm of sports, making her a coveted figure in the advertising world.

9. Brittney Reese (Net Worth) – $2 million

Age: 37

Nationality: U.S.A

Source of Wealth: Athletics 

The seven-time world champion and Olympic gold medalist has not only redefined long jump but also amassed considerable wealth.

Holding the indoor American record in the long jump, Reese’s dominance on the track has translated into substantial financial rewards. With an estimated net worth of $2 million, she stands tall as one of the sport’s most affluent athletes. Prize money, endorsements, and the longevity of her career have all contributed to her financial success. 

Her status as a veteran athlete, coupled with her consistent performance, has made her an attractive proposition for sponsors and appearances, further boosting her income.

8. Shaunae Miller-Uibo (Net Worth) – $2 million

Age: 30

Nationality: Bahamas

Source of Wealth: Athletics 

With an estimated net worth of $2 million, Miller-Uibo is among the elite in terms of wealth accumulation within track and field.

Her consistent dominance on the global stage, marked by Olympic and World Championship medals, has earned her substantial prize money and appearance fees. At 30, she stands as a testament to the earning potential of top-tier athletes.

7. Sanya Richards-Ross (Net Worth) – $2.5 million

Age: 39

Nationality: U.S.A

Source of Wealth: Athletics, Endorsements

The Jamaican-born American sprint legend, has carved out a remarkable career both on and off the track. The Olympic champion and world champion in the 400 meters has translated her athletic success into substantial wealth.

With an estimated net worth of $2.5 million, Richards-Ross stands as a prominent figure in the financial realm of track and field. Her Olympic gold medals and consistent world-class performances have made her a highly sought-after athlete for sponsorships. Nike, among others, has recognized her marketability, resulting in lucrative endorsement deals.

Beyond her athletic career, Richards-Ross has diversified her income streams through media engagements and entrepreneurship. Her work as a sports analyst for networks like NBC and ESPN has expanded her reach and earnings. Authorship and motivational speaking have further contributed to her financial success.

Richards-Ross is a quintessential example of an athlete who has maximized their potential both on and off the track

6. Dina Asher-Smith (Net Worth) – $2.5 million

Age: 28

Nationality: United Kingdom

Source of Wealth: Athletics 

With an estimated net worth of $2.5 million, Asher-Smith is among the elite in terms of wealth accumulation within the sport. Her speed and charisma have made her a highly marketable athlete. Endorsement deals with prestigious fashion brands like Louis Vuitton, Valentino, and Off-White have solidified her status as a style icon, further boosting her income and influence.

Asher-Smith’s story is a testament to the evolving landscape of athlete endorsements. She has seamlessly transitioned from the track to the fashion world, demonstrating the power of personal branding.

5. Caster Semenya (Net Worth) – $2.5 million

Age: 33

Nationality: South Africa

Source of Wealth: Athletics

With an estimated net worth of $2.5 million, Semenya is among the most affluent athletes in track and field. Her dominance in the 800 meters, highlighted by two Olympic gold medals and three World Championship titles, has earned her significant prize money.

Beyond her athletic achievements, Semenya has become a global icon. Recognized as one of Time magazine’s 100 Most Influential People in 2019, she has used her platform to advocate for inclusivity and fairness in sports.

4. Allyson Felix (Net Worth) – $4.5 million

Age: 38

Nationality: U.S.A

Source of Wealth: Athletics, Sponsorships & Endorsements, Private-owned businesses

Allyson Felix, a legendary figure in the world of athletics, has translated her sporting success into substantial financial rewards. With an estimated net worth of $4.5 million, she stands as one of the richest female athletes in history.

Her illustrious career, adorned with Olympic and World Championship medals, has made her a highly sought-after figure for sponsors. Partnerships with major brands such as Nike, Gap Inc, Athleta, and Procter & Gamble have significantly contributed to her wealth.

Felix’s entrepreneurial spirit is equally impressive. Her co-founding of the footwear company Saysh, focused on empowering women athletes, demonstrates her commitment to making a positive impact beyond the track. Her business acumen, combined with her athletic achievements, has solidified her status as a role model and inspiration for generations to come.

3. Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce (Net Worth) –  $5 million

Age: 37

Nationality: Jamaica

Source of Wealth: Athletics, Sponsorships & Endorsements, Private-owned businesses 

Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce has transformed her athletic prowess into a substantial financial empire. With an estimated net worth of $4.5 million, she ranks among the wealthiest female track and field athletes globally.

Her dominance on the track, marked by multiple Olympic and World Championship titles, has made her a highly sought-after figure for sponsors. Partnerships with leading brands like Nike and Digicel have significantly contributed to her wealth. Fraser-Pryce’s global appeal and marketability have solidified her position as a commercial powerhouse in the sport.

Beyond athletics, her entrepreneurial spirit has driven her to diversify her income streams. The establishment of Chic Hair Ja, a successful hair salon in Kingston, Jamaica, showcases her business acumen. This venture has not only generated revenue but has also solidified her status as a role model for aspiring entrepreneurs.

2. Genzebe Dibaba (Net Worth) – $5 million

Age: 33

Nationality: Ethiopia

Source of Wealth: Athletics 

The Ethiopian athlete has etched her name in the annals of track and field history through her unparalleled achievements.

Her collection of world records in indoor events, coupled with Olympic and World Championship medals, has solidified her status as one of the greatest distance runners of all time. This extraordinary success has translated into significant financial rewards, with an estimated net worth of $5 million placing her among the sport’s elite earners.  

While her primary income stems from her athletic prowess, Dibaba’s influence has undoubtedly attracted lucrative endorsement deals, further contributing to her wealth. 

1. Sha’carri Richardson (Net Worth) – $6 million

Age: 24

Nationality: U.S.A

Source of Wealth: Athletics, Sponsorships & Endorsements 

In 2024, Sha’Carri Richardson stands as the wealthiest female track and field athlete, with an estimated net worth of $6 million. At just 24 years old, this American sprint sensation has not only dominated the track with her incredible speed but also excelled in the business realm through strategic endorsements and sponsorships. Her financial success is largely attributed to a groundbreaking five-year deal with Nike, signed in 2023 and valued at $20 million.

This lucrative contract, which followed her international victories, has cemented her status as a global sports icon. While her partnership with Nike began in 2019, the recent agreement has significantly boosted her financial standing.

In addition to her Nike contract, Sha’Carri’s wealth is enhanced by several high-profile endorsements, including deals with Apple Music, Beats, and Sprite, further diversifying her income streams. These endorsements highlight her marketability and widespread appeal, both on and off the track. Sha’Carri also earned a spot on Forbes’ 30 Under 30 Class of 2024 sports list, underscoring her influence and success in the sports world.