Coco Gauff has been named one of Forbes’ most powerful women in American sports for 2025, joining Serena Williams, Billie Jean King, and Portia Archer in a group that spans generations of influence. Ranked No. 13 on the list, Gauff’s inclusion reflects her rapid ascent both on and off the court. Since winning the U.S. Open in 2023, she has become one of the most recognizable athletes in the world.
Forbes estimates her annual earnings at $37.2 million, combining prize money and endorsements with brands like New Balance, Head, and Barilla. Beyond her athletic achievements, Gauff has used her platform to speak out on issues of equality and youth empowerment.
“I want to use my voice to make change, not just in tennis but in society,” Gauff said in a recent interview with Time.
Serena Williams continues to shape the future of sport
Serena Williams, ranked No. 11, remains a dominant force in sports business and advocacy. Since retiring in 2022, she has expanded her influence through Serena Ventures, a firm that has backed over 70 startups, with nearly 80% led by women or people of color. She also holds ownership stakes in Angel City FC and the Los Angeles Golf Club, part of the TGL league supported by Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy.
“I want to invest in founders who are changing the world,” Williams told Forbes.
Billie Jean King’s legacy remains vital
Billie Jean King, ranked No. 23, continues to be a guiding figure in the fight for gender equality in sports. At 81, her impact spans decades, from her historic victory over Bobby Riggs in 1973 to her ongoing work with the Women’s Sports Foundation and the WTA, which she helped establish.
“Equality is not just a word, it’s a responsibility,” King said during a recent panel hosted by the Women’s Sports Foundation.
Portia Archer brings fresh leadership to the WTA
Portia Archer, ranked No. 19, has quickly made her mark as CEO of the WTA. Since taking the role in August 2024, she has focused on modernizing the organization’s identity and strengthening its commitment to player advocacy. Her previous experience as COO of the NBA G League has shaped her approach to balancing commercial growth with athlete support.
Forbes praised Archer for “steering the WTA toward a more inclusive and dynamic future,” highlighting her role in reshaping leadership in women’s tennis.
Together, these four women represent a powerful cross-section of sport, business, and activism—each contributing to a broader movement that continues to redefine what leadership looks like in the world of tennis.
Cori Gauff in 2025
At the moment ranked no.3, Gauff played her last match on the 12th of October when she defeated world no.5 Jessica Pegula 6-4 7-5 in the final in Wuhan to win her 12th career title.
This season Coco has achieved a 47-14 record. The American conquered 3 titles in 2025 in Australia, French Open and Wuhan. The American was the finalist in Madrid and Rome.