Indian athletes Neeraj Chopra and Manu Bhaker have now outpaced cricketers in endorsement deals, signaling a significant shift in the country’s sports marketing landscape.
Chopra, who clinched a silver medal at the Paris Olympics 2024 with an impressive javelin throw of 89.45 meters, has seen his brand valuation soar.
His market worth, which was previously on par with cricketer Hardik Pandya at USD 29.6 million, is expected to leap to over USD 40 million, making him the most valued non-cricketer in India.
Manu Bhaker, who secured two bronze medals at the same Olympics, has also witnessed a meteoric rise in her endorsement value.
Before the games, Bhaker’s deals were averaging INR 25 lakhs annually, but post-Olympics, she signed a deal with a major soft drink brand worth INR 1.5 crore.
The young shooter has been approached by over 40 brands since her Olympic success, according to Neerav Tomar, CEO and MD of IOS Sports and Entertainment.
This surge in endorsement value extends beyond just Neeraj Chopra and Manu Bhaker. Wrestler Vinesh Phogat, despite not winning the medal at the Olympics, saw her deal values increase from INR 25 lakhs to around INR 1 crore per year.
These developments underscore a growing recognition of India’s diverse athletic talent, shifting the focus away from cricket to a broader appreciation of sporting excellence.