
via Imago
Image Credits – Imago

via Imago
Image Credits – Imago
The athletes’ earnings are always considered being one of the most complicated discussions in sports. A general consensus would suggest that the top athletes fall among the richest individuals in the world. However, the most successful sporting icons are not always the highest earners in their respective sports. In fact, the athlete who turns out to be the most marketable of the lot occupies the top spot. As far as men’s tennis is concerned, Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic top the income charts.
Despite having negligible prize money in the last 12 months, the Swiss Maestro sits on top of the pile for highest earning men’s tennis players ahead of his rival Djokovic.
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Roger Federer trumps Novak Djokovic
The Swiss Maestro hung up his racket in September 2022. Since then, his rival Djokovic went on to win seven titles, including two Grand Slams. Federer on the other hand, relied on his off-court endeavors for earnings. However, the off-court activities were more than just enough for the 20-time major champion.
According to the recent Forbes list, Roger Federer’s earnings for the last twelve months hit a staggering volume of $95 million. Djokovic, despite his on-court success, could only amass $38.4 million. Over 65% of the Serb’s income ($25 million) came via off-court activities.

via Reuters
Tennis – Wimbledon – All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club, London, Britain – July 3, 2022 Serbia’s Novak Djokovic and Switzerland’s Roger Federer are seen during centre court centenary celebrations REUTERS/Hannah Mckay
This has been the case with almost all top players. The prize money comprises only a small proportion of their total earnings. For instance, the young gun Carlos Alcaraz registered a whopping $31.1 million, earning for the last twelve months, of which $20 million was generated from off-court activities.
While top players lock horns in a rather close battle for the top earning spot, Roger Federer sits at least two levels above the rest of the pack.
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How does Federer continue to be the face of tennis?
Federer may have retired, but he still continues to be the marketing sensation he was back in his prime. His large list of endorsements allows him to rank above his peers. From Uniqlo to Mercedes-Benz, the former World No.1 continues to attract all the big companies. One can draw parallels between Michael Jordan and Roger Federer as they continue to be the face of their sports despite retiring. Their influence till date is unmatched and second to none, which enables them to attract all the deals.
The likes of Djokovic are also very influential in their own regard. However, Federer, being the guy who transcended the sport, has always had the upper hand when it comes to endorsements.
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