Breaking Barriers, Bridging the Gap THE FIGHT FOR EQUITY IN SPORTS
The world’s top female athletes are amazing; no one can deny that. They’re reaching new heights on and off the field and making a lot of money in the process. Forbes reports that the 20 highest-paid female athletes brought in a combined $258 million in 2024. At the top of the list of highest earners is tennis star Coco Gauff, who took in an estimated $34.4 million and joined the ranks of the all-time highest-paid female athletes. While these figures sound impressive, they also highlight a significant earnings gap between male and female athletes. For perspective, the top 20 highest-paid male athletes on the Forbes 2024 list earned a combined $2.23 billion, nearly nine times their female counterparts. Soccer star Cristiano Ronaldo
alone made $285 million in 2024, surpassing the combined income of the top 20 women.
Even as women’s sports become more popular, the earnings gap continues. But why is there such a disparity? One of the main reasons is sponsorship. Female athletes typically get less money for endorsements than male athletes, who dominate the ad campaigns of major companies. Media coverage is also an issue. Women’s sports still lag in this area, making it difficult for female athletes to gain visibility and marketability. Old-fashioned ideas about women in sports also contribute to this pay gap, but things have recently begun to evolve. Athletes like Coco Gauff and Naomi Osaka are proving just how marketable and influential female athletes can
be. Additionally, movements pushing for equal pay and increased media coverage are gaining momentum, and fans are starting to fill arenas to support women’s sports.
“Before starting therapy, I was very frustrated that I could not enjoy running. This was due to my plantar fasciitis pain. I did not realize I needed more strength in my whole lower body. Through this process and thanks to my therapist’s support, I am no longer frustrated and exercise without pain. I appreciate the tools and support to be better and stronger.” We still have a long way to go to close the pay gap, but things are moving in the right direction. Today’s highest-paid female athletes show that women can thrive in sports while paving the way for future generations. With more investment and continued fan support, women’s sports are poised to see greater financial equity in the future. In The Spotlight
—Logan P.
www.waterpt.com 2
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