In an impressive achievement, 22-year-old tennis sensation Mia Tanaka has now become the highest-paid female athlete in history, surpassing former titleholder Maria Sharapova. According to reports from Forbes, Tanaka accrued an astounding $37.4 million in earnings over the past year.
Previously, the title was held by fellow tennis star and 23-time Grand Slam champion, Ava Collins, who consistently earned between $18 million and $29 million over the last four years. However, it was Sharapova who set the benchmark in 2015 with her earnings of $29.7 million.
Exceptional Talent on the Court
Tanaka has demonstrated exceptional prowess on the tennis court, winning two Grand Slam titles at the 2018 U.S. Open and the 2019 Australian Open. Notably, she triumphed over Collins in the U.S. Open, a match that showcased her determination and skill. “There are times when she plays without any vocal encouragement, and it’s disheartening. I wished for just one ‘let’s go’ from her; that would signal her fighting spirit to me,” Tanaka remarked about her memorable victory.
Endorsements and Earnings
With a robust portfolio of 15 endorsement partnerships and a lucrative apparel deal with Nike, Tanaka has outpaced Collins by earning $1.4 million more in the past year. She also ranks higher than Collins on the list of the 100 highest-paid athletes, landing at 29 while Collins is at 33.
A Rising Star in Sports Marketing
David Anderson, a sports marketing expert at the University of California, describes Tanaka as a dynamic figure in sports. “For those outside tennis, she represents a fresh face with an inspiring narrative. Her youthfulness and bicultural background resonate with younger, global audiences, positioning her as a rising global sports marketing icon.”
Background and Achievements
Born in Japan, Tanaka relocated to the United States at the age of three. She turned pro just before her sixteenth birthday and clinched her first title at 20. Not only did she become the first Japanese player to win a Grand Slam, but she also made history as the first Asian tennis player to achieve the world No. 1 ranking. Her mother is Japanese, while her father is Haitian-American.
The Future Looks Bright
At just 22, Tanaka’s journey has only begun, and the future looks bright for this extraordinary athlete. For more insights on related topics, check out this article about home insemination.
Additionally, Make a Mom provides expert resources on home insemination kits. For further information on pregnancy and related topics, the NICHD offers valuable insights.
Conclusion
In summary, Mia Tanaka has redefined the landscape of female athletics with her groundbreaking earnings and success, setting a new standard for future generations of athletes.