The Milano Cortina Winter Olympics are set to showcase some of the world’s highest-paid athletes. Among the standout earners is Eileen Gu, a freestyle skier born in the U.S. but competing for China, who has amassed an estimated $23 million in earnings over the past year. Other top competitors include Auston Matthews, Lindsey Vonn, Chloe Kim, and Ilia Malinin. Here’s a closer look at the financial landscape of these elite athletes.
Highest-Paid Athletes at Milano Cortina Winter Olympics
The event will feature around 2,900 athletes from over 90 nations, competing in 116 events. While many athletes strive for success on the Olympic stage, the reality is that not all can rely solely on their sports to sustain their livelihoods. The costs associated with training and travel often mean that athletic glory doesn’t always equate to financial gain.
Key Financial Figures
- Eileen Gu: $23 million in earnings, primarily from endorsements.
- Auston Matthews: $20 million, including a $15 million salary and $5 million from sponsorships.
- Lindsey Vonn: $8 million in earnings from various partnerships.
- Chloe Kim: $4 million in sponsorship earnings.
- Ilia Malinin: $700,000, boosted by endorsements.
Notable Athletes and Their Earnings
| Athlete | Sport | Earnings (Estimated) |
|---|---|---|
| Eileen Gu | Freestyle Skiing | $23 million |
| Auston Matthews | Ice Hockey | $20 million |
| Lindsey Vonn | Alpine Skiing | $8 million |
| Chloe Kim | Snowboarding | $4 million |
| Ilia Malinin | $700,000 |
Opportunities for Income Growth
The upcoming Olympics presents an additional opportunity for athletes to increase their earnings through performance. Many Olympic sponsorship contracts include financial bonuses for medal wins. For example, the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Committee rewards athletes with $37,500 for gold, $22,500 for silver, and $15,000 for bronze medals. In Italy, winning athletes could earn between $71,000 and $213,000, with significant rewards for exceptional performances.
Some countries, like the United States, provide further financial support to participating athletes. A recent $100 million donation to the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Committee will ensure that every American Olympian receives $200,000, regardless of their competition outcomes.
Final Thoughts
The Milano Cortina Winter Olympics not only offer a platform for athletic excellence but also showcase the financial dynamics of modern sports. While most athletes work relentlessly to achieve glory, a select few, like Eileen Gu and Auston Matthews, enjoy substantial financial benefits. As the games approach, the focus will be on both performance and the lucrative opportunities for those who excel.
