In the world of sports, where fame and fortune go hand in hand, few athletes have managed to reach the pinnacle of success like Virat Kohli, India’s most famous and wealthiest athlete. With a staggering net worth of over Rs 1,000 crore, Kohli has secured his place as one of Asia’s highest-paid athletes. In 2022, he ranked an impressive 61 in the list of the top 100 highest-paid athletes worldwide, according to Sportico.
Kohli’s Earnings Breakdown
Kohli’s incredible earnings are a result of both his salary and endorsement deals. Playing for the IPL franchise Royal Challengers Bangalore and representing the Indian national team, Kohli earned a substantial $2.9 million from his salary and winnings. However, the real game-changer lies in his endorsement ventures, which brought in a staggering $31 million. With his combined earnings, Kohli’s total income for 2022 amounted to an impressive $33.9 million.
The Highest-Paid Cricketer in the World
Not only is Virat Kohli one of Asia’s highest-earning athletes, but he also holds the title of the highest-paid cricketer globally. Despite dropping two positions from his 2021 ranking, where he held the 59th spot, Kohli continues to dominate the cricketing world with his financial prowess.
The Sole Asian Representatives in the Top 100 List
Within the coveted list of the top 100 highest-paid athletes in the world, only two Asians managed to secure a spot. Virat Kohli stands as the sole representative from India, while Japanese tennis sensation Naomi Osaka proudly represents Asia.
Naomi Osaka: The Highest-Paid Asian Athlete
Naomi Osaka, at just 25 years old, has already accomplished a remarkable feat in the world of tennis, boasting four grand slam titles, including two US Open and two Australian Open championships. In 2022, she ranked as the highest-paid Asian athlete, securing the 20th position on the global list.
The Lucrative World of Endorsements
While Osaka’s winnings contributed $1.2 million to her earnings, an astonishing $52 million came from her lucrative endorsement deals. With total estimated earnings of $53.2 million, Osaka is a shining example of how endorsements can significantly impact an athlete’s financial success.
A Slight Drop in Rankings
In comparison to her 2021 rank of 15, Osaka experienced a slight dip in her position on the list, falling five places. Nevertheless, her immense popularity and stellar performance on the tennis court continue to attract lucrative sponsorship deals, making her one of the highest-paid tennis players globally.
Conclusion
In conclusion, both Virat Kohli and Naomi Osaka have showcased their exceptional skills not only in their respective sports but also in securing highly profitable endorsement deals. As Asia’s second highest-paid athlete, Kohli’s financial influence in the cricketing world remains unparalleled. Meanwhile, Naomi Osaka’s remarkable achievements on the tennis court have solidified her position as the highest-paid Asian athlete and a dominant force in the world of endorsements. These two exceptional athletes serve as a testament to the immense potential and possibilities for success that await talented individuals in the realm of sports and endorsements.
Source: DNA INDIA
