Some athletes shine on the field, but others take it a step further and turn their success into full-blown empires. These women didn’t just win medals and trophies—they became brands in their own right, with endorsement deals, commercials, and campaigns that kept them in the spotlight.
From tennis courts to soccer fields to Olympic podiums, these 16 female athletes knew how to market themselves like pros. Whether it was through charisma, style, or simply being the best, they turned their athletic fame into major business moves.
16. Alex Morgan
She’s not just a soccer star—Alex Morgan became one of the most recognizable faces in sports. Between magazine covers and major brand deals, she’s mastered the art of staying in the public eye.
15. Ronda Rousey
Ronda broke barriers in MMA, then cashed in with commercials, movies, and WWE appearances. Her confidence and intensity made her a go-to figure for marketing campaigns that needed a little edge.
14. Simone Biles
Simone Biles flips, twists, and lands endorsement deals like it’s second nature. With her powerhouse performances and strong personal voice, brands flocked to her.
13. Maria Sharapova
Sharapova’s tennis game was strong, but her off-court business savvy might’ve been even better. From candy lines to fashion shoots, she created a luxury brand vibe that stuck.
12. Megan Rapinoe
She’s bold, she’s outspoken, and she’s everywhere. Megan Rapinoe turned her World Cup stardom into a marketing machine that blended sports and activism.
11. Suni Lee
After her Olympic gold, Suni Lee quickly became a household name. Brands jumped at the chance to work with her, and she’s handled the spotlight like a veteran.
10. Venus Williams
While Serena often grabs the headlines, Venus built her own impressive brand. From fashion to fitness to entrepreneurship, she’s quietly been dominating behind the scenes.
9. Naomi Osaka
Naomi Osaka mixes cool confidence with a fresh aesthetic that marketers love. Whether it’s luxury fashion or big-name endorsements, she knows how to play the branding game.
8. Lindsey Vonn
Lindsey Vonn didn’t just race down mountains—she raced into the mainstream. Her charisma and crossover appeal made her a fixture in commercials and campaigns long after her ski career.
7. Chloe Kim
Snowboarding made her famous, but Chloe Kim’s charm kept her there. She’s landed deals with top brands thanks to her relatable personality and standout style.
6. Abby Wambach
Abby’s legendary career gave her the platform, and she ran with it. From author to speaker to advocate, she’s built a brand that goes far beyond soccer.
5. Caitlin Clark
Caitlin Clark lit up college basketball and carried that buzz straight into the pros. Her highlight-reel shots and magnetic personality turned her into a marketing sensation almost overnight.
4. Allyson Felix
After taking a stand against unfair maternity policies, Felix became a symbol of strength and authenticity. She even launched her own shoe brand, proving she doesn’t need anyone else to endorse her.
Read More: The 15 Most Respected Female Athletes of All Time
3. Danica Patrick
Danica Patrick broke barriers in racing, then cashed in with major ad campaigns and personal branding. She became more than a driver—she became a cultural icon.
Read More: The 15 Most Marketable Athletes in Sports History
2. Serena Williams
Serena isn’t just a tennis legend—she’s a business powerhouse. With deals ranging from fashion to fintech, she’s built an empire that extends way beyond the court.
Read More: When Serena and Djokovic Made Tennis Feel Like Live Theater
1. Sha’Carri Richardson
Sha’Carri’s style, swagger, and authenticity lit up social media, and brands took notice. She’s become a marketing force because she refuses to be anyone but herself.
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