Sharapova unchallenged as world's top earning female athlete

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Sharapova unchallenged as world's top earning female athlete

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For the seventh straight year, Sharapova topped the annual list provided by Forbes magazine

03 August,2011 01:06 pm

Maria Sharapova may not have won a grand slam title since 2008, but the Russian tennis player remains unchallenged as the worlds highest paid woman in professional sports.For the seventh straight year, Sharapova topped the annual list provided by Forbes magazine, despite failing to add to her three grand slam titles, although she did make the Wimbledon final in July.Sharapovas earnings, mostly off-court endorsements, were estimated at $25 million, twice as much as her nearest rival, Denmarks Caroline Wozniacki, the current womens world number one.American racing driver Danica Patrick was third with $12 million followed by tennis players Venus Williams, Belgiums Kim Clijsters and Serena Williams.Seven of the top nine female earners were tennis players, including Chinas Li Na, who made $8 million last year but was expected to soar up the rankings and challenge Sharapova for the top spot after her breakthrough win at the French Open.Top 10 women earners1. Maria Sharapova $25 million (Russia, tennis)2. Caroline Wozniacki $12.5 million (Denmark, tennis3. Danica Patrick $12 million (US , motor racing)4. Venus Williams $11.5 million (US , tennis)5. Kim Clijsters $11 million (Belgium, tennis)6. Serena Williams $10.5 million (US , tennis)7. Kim Yuna $10 million (figure skating, South Korea)8. Li Na $8 million (China, tennis)9. Ana Ivanovic $6 million (Serbia, tennis)10. Paula Creamer $5.5 million (US , golf)